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IlIBRARY OF CONGRESS J 

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T {UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, f 



MEMOIRS 



or THE 



LIFE or DAVID TERRIS, 



AN 



5l|i|irnDBii 3iliDistE nf tjjB IntiEttf nf fxinh, 



LATE OF "WILMINGTON IN THE STATE OF DELAWARE. 



WRITTEN BY HIMSELF. 



REVISED AND CORRECTED FROM THE ORIGINAL COPY IN MANUSCRIPT 




PHILADELPHIA: 

Merrihew & Thompson's Steam Power Press, 
Merchant Street above Fourth* 

1855. 



INTRODUCTION. 

David Ferris, the subject of the following Me- 
moir, was the son of Zachariah and Sarah Ferris, 
late of New Milford, in the State of Connecticut. 
His grandfather, Samuel Ferris, came from Read- 
ing, in England, and was one of the early settlers 
of the Massachusetts Colony. David's parents had 
a family of eight children, of which he was the third. 

When a large family of children are remarkable 
for the propriety of their conduct, or become greatly 
useful in society, it is almost always found, on a 
close inquiry, that their mother has been eminently 
qualified, by her piety and other virtues, for the 
important concern of education. That such was 
the character of -David Ferris's mother, is evident, 
as well from tradition as by authentic documents 
yet extant in the family. In a short account of his 
parentage, written many years after her death, by 
her son Benjamin, he says, " My mother lived seve- 
ral years after my father's decease. She was of 



4 INTRODUCTION. 

the Puritan sort of people — a woman of great un- 
derstanding, and well versed and read in the Scrip- 
tures and other good books ; — of extensive know- 
ledge, and having a memory to exceed most per- 
sons that ever I knew. She was of a pious and 
religious disposition, being like Mary of old, who, 
as our Lord said, had chosen that good part that 
should not be taken away from her. Her exem- 
plary conduct and behaviour made a deep impres- 
sion on my mind when very young, even when not 
more than nine or ten years old." This character 
of his mother is amply confirmed by her son David 
in the following work, where in several places he 
refers to her concern for his welfare, whilst strug- 
gling through the temptations and diflSculties of his 
early life. 

The following brief memoir has many touching 
references to her maternal care. In one place the 
author says, "My mother being a religious woman, 
and much concerned for the good of her offspring, 
both temporally and spiritually, was frequent in 
giving us good advice and admonition, that we might 
shun the paths of error ; and teaching us, by her 
own example as well as by precept, to walk in the 
ways of virtue, which lead to peace. This was a 



INTRODUCTION. 5 

great help to us while young, and was not easily 
forgotten when we came to maturity." 

Her son Benjamin, in the short account before 
mentioned, says, " She was of the Puritan sort of 
people.'' It has become customary in modern times 
to think and speak disrespectfully of the Puritans, 
as a severe, morose, repulsive sect. This has arisen 
partly, perhaps, from the character of the New 
England hierarchy in the seventeenth century, 
which, in connection with the civil Government, 
passed and executed many severe laws against the 
innocent dissenters from their creed. But the early 
settlers of Massachusetts were by no means true 
representatives of the old or primitive Puritans, 
The latter, as early as the reign of Queen Elizabeth, 
separated from the established Church, on pure 
conscientious grounds, the same, in many particu- 
lars, that induced George Fox and his religious as- 
sociates to withdraw from its communion. They 
were a sincere, upright, spiritually-minded people ; 
in their ministry and worship approaching much 
nearer to the standard of Truth, as afterwards raised 
by Friends, than any other society existing in the 
fore part of the seventeenth century. A very large 
portion of George Fox's fellow laborers had sat 
under the Puritan ministry ; and there can be no 

1* 



6 INTRODUCTION. 

doubt that, under that ministry, their minds were 
prepared for the further unfolding of Divine truth, 
which was afterwards effected through his instru- 
mentality."^ The Puritans of the sixteenth and 
seventeenth centuries, through faithfulness (in many 
instances unto death) were a means, in the Divine 
hand, of holding up a light to the world which can 
never be wholly extinguished. 

In his early minority David Ferris was favored 
with a remarkable Divine visitation, under which 
he was made willing to renounce all the ensnaring 
allurements incident to that period of life. Whilst 
he was careful to live in a state of watchfulness and 
prayer, the knowledge of divine things was unfolded 
to his understanding, and, by dwelling under the 
cross of Christ, his yoke became easy and his bur- 
den light ; childish vanities were distasteful to him ; 
to use his own language — '' the world and the things 
thereof lost all their lustre," in his sight. 

^ For evidence of the truth of this sentiment^ see -^ The 
Gospel Treasury Opened,'^ by John Everard ; '^ The Hea- 
venly University, wherein is the highest teaching, — the 
teaching of the heart,'^ by Francis Rouse ] '• The Crucified 
and quickened Christian,^' " Christ's Spirit a , Christian's 
Strength/' and other works of William Dell; '^ The Way 
to the Sabbath of rest, or the SouPs progress in the work of 
the new birth," and other treatises, by Thomas Bromley; 
all published in the 17th century. 



INTRODUCTION. 7 

He was now approaching his twentieth year, a 
period when the world and its glories are usually 
presented to the youthful mind with their strongest 
attractions. In recurring to this period, he very 
feelingly expresses his regret that, not keeping his 
eye single to the Divine Light, he lost his heavenly 
Leader, and then "the world rose again with splen- 
dor to his view.'' In this state '^ earthly delights 
and vanity " became objects of his ardent affection, 
so much so, that he " took great pleasure in airy 
and vain company." His mother, ever watchful 
over his best interests, saw his danger, and was 
alarmed. She mourned over his fall, and urged his 
return. During this season of alienation from his 
Divine Leader, he suffered grievously under a sense 
of his transgression, and was not restored to the 
heavenly Father's house until, like the Prodigal 
Son, he had endured all the horrors of« a famine, 
during an awful separation from the only source of 
real enjoyment. 

Our late Friend, George Dillwyn, whose worth 
as a member and minister of the church of Christ 
will long be remembered with affectionate regard, 
gave it as his judgment, that David Ferris's Me- 
moirs were amongst the most instructive he had 
ever read, because the author recorded Ms errors 



8 INTRODUCTION. 

and the means of his recovery more circumstantially 
than others. Knowing that " the whole need not 
a physician, but they that are sick/' he thought 
the experiences recorded in the work were very 
valuable, as affording to the wanderer great en- 
couragement to return, repent and live. 

After David had refused to take a diploma, he 
left the College and returned to the home of his 
parents. They had heard of his proceedings — had 
learned he had renounced the honors and profits 
of the clerical profession, together with a lucrative 
post which had been provided for him. His father 
was thereby greatly grieved and offended. Under 
these feelings he declared that, if these reports 
were true, he desired his son might never again 
come to his house ; and when afterwards he came 
there, refused to speak to him. This disposition on 
the part of his father, greatly alarmed and dis- 
tressed his mother. While she deeply felt for the 
grief and disappointment of her husband, her heart 
yearned with compassion over her innocent son, of 
whose sincerity she had no doubts, though she may 
have had fears concerning the soundness of his judg- 
ment. After his father had refused to speak to 
David, as related in the Memoirs, she sought a 
private conference with her son. In this oppor- 



INTRODUCTION. 9 

tunity she questioned him closely in relation to his 
religious principles and conduct at College. To all 
her inquiries he gave such a clear account of him- 
self and his proceedings, as left her in silent won- 
der at both the Divine goodness and her son's in- 
tegrity. In this frame of mind she met her husband, 
and taking him aside, informed him that, in a full 
and free conference with David, she was satisfied 
he had acted conscientiously ; that many of the 
reports concerning him were wholly unfounded, and 
that she had a lively hope he would yet do welh 
This wise and affectionate conduct of the mother 
softened the wounded feelings of the father, and 
prepared the way for the conciliatory interview 
between him and his son, as mentioned in the fol- 
lowing narrative. 

After this time, the mother and five children, to 
wit, David, Benjamin, Hannah, John and Zacha- 
riah, joined in membership with Friends. These 
children all became approved and valuable minis- 
ters of the Gospel, and died in unity with the 
Society. 

EDITOR. 

Fourth month 12thy 1855. 



A TESTIMONY 

PROM WILMINGTON MONTHLY MEETING, IN THE COUNTY OF NETT 
CASTLE, ON DELAWARE, CONCERNING 

DAVID FEERIS. 

He was the son of Zachariah and Sarah Ferris ; and 
was born in Stratford, in Connecticut government, New 
England, the 10th of the Third month, 1707. His pa- 
rents being Presbyterians, brought him up in that way ; 
his mother being religiously disposed, and much con- 
cerned for her offspring, frequently gave them good ad- 
vice and admonition ; which had some good eflect with 
this, our friend, as he has often been heard to express. 

We find, by some remarks he left, that about the 
twelfth year of his age, he was frequently visited and 
called unto by the divine Monitor in his heart, to forsake 
evil and youthful vanities, which he delighted in ; and, 
by being in a good degree faithful thereto, was for a time 
preserved from them ; but for want of attending to that 
which would have continued to preserve him, the pleasures 
and vanities of this world got hold of his mind ; so that 
he took much deligh't in airy and vain company, music 
and dancing, and such like amusements, until about the 
twentieth year of his age ] when it pleased the Lord to 
visit him with a sore fit of sickness, which proved of last- 
ing advantage to him, as it occasioned him to take up a 
fresh resolution, to forsake the evil of his ways, and turn 
to the Lord with full purpose of heart; .which he was, 
through mercy, favored with ability in measure to per- 
form. 

He still continued in profession with the Presbyterians, 
not having any knowledge of Friends ; although, by at- 



12 MEMOIRS OF DAVID EERRIS. 

tending to the teacbings of divine grace, he became con- 
vinced of the principle we profess ; and hearing of a yearly 
meeting of Friends to be held on Long Island, went to it, 
with desires to discover whether they were a living people 
or not, for such he desired to find ; where he met with 
what he often longed for, a people that worshipped God 
in spirit and in truth ; which was a great strength and 
confirmation to him, in forsaking the errors of his youth. 
And by yielding obedience to these inward motions, he 
gained strength, and was more and more enabled to bear 
a faithful testimony to the truth, as it was made known 
to him. 

In the Sixth month, 1733, he removed to Philadelphia, 
where he joined in religious fellowship with Friends. In 
1735, he married Mary, the daughter of Samuel and 
Sarah Massey ; and in 1737, removed to Wilmington, in 
New Castle County ; where he resided the remainder of 
his days. 

He made some appearance in the ministry about the 
year 1734 ; but through unfaithfulness to the Divine call, 
he from time to time put it off, and remained in a neglect 
of duty therein upwards of twenty years ; although he was 
often warned, both immediately and instrumentally, in a 
remarkable manner ; which, at length, produced a sub- 
mission to the Divine will ; so that, in the year 1755, he 
was made willing to give up thereto, and therein found 
great peace. 

He travelled through divers parts of this continent in 
the work of the ministry ; and, by certificates produced 
on his return home, it appeared that his conduct, conver- 
sation, and labors abroad, were exemplary and edifying ; 
tending to the advancement of truth and righteousness. 
His doctrine was sound, and acceptable to the honest- 
hearted, though sharp against the hypocrite and rebel- 
lious ; yet tender to the mourners and disconsolate. 

He was very serviceable in our meetings for discipline^ 
which, with other meetings, he diligently attended ; not 
suffering his outward affairs to hinder him from what he 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 13 

believed to be bis religious duty. And, altbougb be fol- 
lowed sbop-keeping for a living, it was bis practice to 
sbut up bis sbop, and take bis family witb bim to week- 
day meetings ; often expressing, for the encouragement of 
otbers, tbat be believed it was attended witb a blessing. 
He was free and open-bearted to entertain Friends, and 
concerned to bring up bis cbildron in plainness, and in- 
struct tbem in tbe fear of tbe Lord, believing that to be 
tbe best portion tbey could inherit ] remarkably charitable 
to the poor, and often administered to tbeir necessities. 

Bodily weakness attended bim during tbe last three 
years of bis life ; and near the close of bis days he was 
mucb afflicted witb sickness, wbicb he bore witb patience ; 
often expressing bis prospect of bis approacbing end, and 
bis resignation therein, saying, ^^All is well.''' Several 
Friends being present, after a time of silence, be in a 
lively manner repeated tbe expressions of tbe Apostle — - 
'* To me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.'^ 

He departed this life tbe 5tb of tbe Twelftb month, 
1779, aged upwards of seventy-two, a minister about 
twenty-four years. On tbe 7tb of tbe same montb. his 
corpse was interred in our burying ground in Wilmington. 



M E M I R S 



OP THE 



LIFE OP DAVID FERRIS 



When I consider the situation of man in his fallen 
state, and the great change that all must experience be- 
fore they can be delivered from the power of darkness, 
and be translated into the kingdom of the dear Son of 
God ; that, in order to attain to this happy state, all must 
experience a mortification of their natural tempers and 
evil propensities ; must know the '^ old man '^ to be slain, 
and the '' new man '' to be put on ; which, after God, is 
created in righteousness and true holiness ; and that, in 
order to walk in the new and living way, we must know 
old things to pass away and all things to become new. I 
say, when I consider these things, I feel a concern for 
my fellow men, that they may become acquainted with 
this change. And, apprehending that I have had some 
acquaintance with it, by passing through various dispensa- 
lions of trial and affliction, I am inclined to leave some 
account of thena to posterity, to show to those who follow, 
that the Lord is ever near, and will be found of those who 
seek him early ; that he is long suffering towards those 
who go astray, and merciful to all who sincerely turn to 
him ; hoping it may minister information and encourage- 
ment to weary travellers in the same road, and induce 
them cheerfully to comply with divine requirings. 

I wrote a short account of the fore part of my life in 
Latin, continued to about the twenty-fifth year of my age. 



16 MEMOIRS OF DAYID FERRIS. 

The many difficulties and dangers in my way, and some- 
times doubting whether I should hold out to the end, in- 
duced me to keep my history in a language unknown to 
those about me. I concluded that if I should hold on 
my way, I might afterward translate it into English, and 
add to it, as I found freedom. And now, after about 
twenty years' experience of divine support and preserva- 
tion, having great cause to say that '' God is good to them 
who seek him,'' that none seek him in vain, and that his 
tender mercies fail not, I am inclined to translate it, 
hoping it may be useful, at least, to some of my posterity. 

I was born at Stratford in Connecticut, New England, 
the 10th day of the Third month, 1707. My parents, 
Zachariah and Sarah Ferris, made profession with the 
people called Presbyterians ] and in that way I had my 
education. My father, while I was very young, moved 
to a place called New Milford. It being a newly settled 
place, I had not the advantage of a school; but, under 
the care of my mother, I soon learned to read in the Bible, 
and understood that there was a Supreme Being, who 
made all things, and preserved and upheld them in their 
order : and that, as the workmanship of his hand, I stood 
accountable to him for every part of my conduct. About 
the eighth year of my age, I was informed that the Di- 
vine Being was self-existent ; without beginning and with- 
out end; and not being able to understand how that 
could be, I sometimes thought so intensely on the sub- 
ject that I became much bewildered. At length it was 
shown me that the proposition was too high for my com- 
prehension ; and I received something like a reproof for 
searching into things beyond my capacity. From that 
time I was fearful of prying into such deep mysteries. 

My mother, being a religious woman, and much con- 
cerned for the good of her offspring, both temporally and 
spiritually, was frequent in giving them good advice and 
admonition ; desiring that we might shun the paths of 
error ; and teaching us, by her own example, as well as 
by precept, to walk in the ways of virtue, which lead to 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 17 

peace. This was a great help to us while young, and was 
not easily forgotten when we came to maturity. Death 
was frequently the subject of my thoughts; and, in the 
twelfth year of my age, I was often called by the 
Holy Spirit to forsake evil and leave youthful vanities, 
which I then delighted in, and to be sober and circum- 
spect in all my ways. By attention to the Divine call, 
and to the reproofs of instruction daily communicated, I 
was preserved from evil, and saw something of the beauty 
of holiness ; the happy state of the righteous in the world 
to come, and also the moving situation of the wicked 
when they put off mortality and hear the awful sentence 
pronounced, '' Depart ye cursed/^ 

About this time a little circumstance occurred that 
much affected my mind, and afforded me lasting instruc- 
tion. As I was riding through a river, against a rapid 
current, a young dog, attempting to swim after me, the 
stream being too strong for him, could not keep up with 
my horse. He appeared to be in the utmost distress, even 
to desperation. As iny mind was filled with pity for the 
poor animal, it was opened to my view the awful amaze- 
ment a poor soul must be in when leaving the world des- 
titute of hope. As simple a circumstance as this may 
appear, it was, I believe, of use to me for years. I was 
very careful of my thoughts, words and actions for several 
years afterwards; the fear of the Lord preserving me 
from evil. My mind was humbled under a sense of my 
daily want of divine help ; and as I abode under a reli- 
gious concern, attending to the reproofs of instruction 
which are the way to life, an increase of light and life 
was communicated to me ; so that I came to delight in 
virtue. As my desires and care for divine things increased, 
the knowledge of them was unfolded. I could truly say 
the Lord was my delight, and for some years, as I dwelt 
in his fear, his yoke was easy, his burden light, and 
all childish vanities were burdensome. 

While I kept near the spring of life, with my mind 
fixed on the true object^ the world and the things thereof 

2* 



18 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

lost all their lustre. But, alas ! not keeping my eye single 
to the light, I lost my Leader ; and then, by little and 
little, the world rose again with splendor to my view. 
Earthly delights and vanity got such hold of my affec- 
tions that I took great pleasure in airy and vain company. 
This was an unspeakable loss to me, and I mention it that 
others may take warning by my harms. It seemed almost 
miraculous that I was ever restored from this lapsed state. 
My mother mourned over me, and often advised and 
urged my return ; showing me the danger of such a course 
of vanity. Yet I was not wholly forsaken by my inward 
Monitor and former Guide. At times it reproved me ; 
at other times called me, wooing and pleading with me 
to return. Sometimes, in the midst of my vanity, I saw 
that I was in the way to death ; and that it would land 
me in everlasting confusion if I did not forsake it. Some- 
times my concern was so great, that I was obliged to leave 
my vain companions, and retire so full of trouble and dis- 
tress that 1 had no satisfaction until a considerable time 
afterward. During these seasons of affliction I was ready 
to promise to forsake my vain course of life, and to cove- 
nant with the Lord that I 'would do so no more, provided 
he would be pleased to grant me his assistance. 
But my efforts, being too much in my own strength, 
proved unavailing. Vanity so prevailed that 1 took great 
delight in music, dancing and other vain amusements. 

In the twentieth year of my age I was visited with 
severe illness, so that I, and those about me, had very little 
hope of my recovery. Then death stared me in the face; 
and a dreadful scene of woe, anguish and misery opened 
to my view. It appeared clear to me that if I were then 
taken off the stage of action I should be unavoidably lost ; 
and that evil spirits were waiting round me, to convey 
my soul to the mansions of misery and everlasting dark- 
ness ; so that my horror, anxiety and distress were inex- 
pressible. In the utmost anguish of mind I cried to the 
Lord for help, promising amendment, if more time and 
ability were afforded me ; and it pleased a kind Provi- 



MEMOIRS OP DAVID FERRIS. 19 

dence to be propitious to me ; so that I was restored to 
health, and in about a month was able to walk about. 

After my recovery I remembered the distress I had 
been in, and the promise I had made, when under the 
dreadful apprehension of everlasting misery and destruc- 
tion. I saw the necessity of a faithful performance of 
my vows. I was sensible that there was a work to be 
done ; and that if I did not now comply with my pro- 
mise, I should have to pass through the same, or rather a 
worse scene of misery and distress. It appeared proba- 
ble that a more convenient opportunity for repentance 
than the present would not be afforded ; and I concluded 
that this was the time to turn from vanity ; forsake my 
evil ways ; and renounce all my sensual delights. But, 
when I had resolved to begin the necessary work of re- 
formation, the adversary of all good tempted me to 
believe that it was too late to think of obtaining peace 
with my Maker • for this plain reason, ^^ that as there 
was a day or time, in which men might be saved ; so, if 
they let that opportunity pass away unimproved, it would 
be in vain to attempt it afterward.^' He suggested, that 
I had had such a day of visitation, and had passed by it ; 
that I had been uncommonly favored with help, and for 
a time did not accept of it ; that I had been made a par- 
taker of the Holy Ghost ; that I had tasted of the good 
word of Grod;, and the powers of the world to come, and 
had fallen from it ; so now it was impossible that I should 
again be renewed unto repentance ; seeing I had cruci- 
fied the son of God afresh, and put him to open shame. 
This reasoning appeared so strong, and so consonant to 
the apostle's doctrine, that I gave up the point ; and con- 
cluded it was too late to attempt a return, with hope of 
acceptance. 

From that time, during the space of about two months, 
I never sought for mercy ; but remained in utter despair. 
My distress was as great as could well be supported with- 
out loss of reason. I daily wished for death, so that it 



20 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

might occur without laying violent hands on myself; 
which I was not much tempted to do. 

It was usual with the young people of our neighbor- 
hood to spend much of their time in vanity and merri- 
ment ; forgetful of God^ their Creator ; as if they had 
been made to please themselves in the gratification of a 
sensual mind, and, provided they were not profanely 
wicked, the elderly part of the Society were not very un- 
easy with it. But, in the year 1727, there was a great 
reformation at New-Milford, among the young people of 
the Presbyterian profession. They had been awakened 
by the immediate operation of the Holy Spirit on their 
own minds ; and were brought into great concern for 
their future well being ; under which they had no out- 
ward assistance. The apostolic doctrine of ^^ Christ 
within,^' and of being '^ led by the Spirit of God,'^ was 
denied by the priest and many of the people, who ap- 
peared to have little sense of a divine Teacher in them- 
selves ; but asserted that revelation had now ceased, and 
no such thing was to be experienced in this day. As I 
had been the companion of those young people in vanity 
and dissipation, they (knowing nothing of my inward 
condition, which I had not discovered to any) generally 
applied to me for counsel and advice ; and I was much 
concerned on their account ; being desirous of affording 
them assistance, although I had no hope of relief at that 
time for myself. 

My trouble continued and increased ; so that I had no 
satisfaction in life. On a certain day, in this season of 
despair and deep distress, I concluded to leave my native 
land and go into some foreign country, to spend the resi- 
due of my days; where I purposed to remain unknown, 
and that none of my relations or acquaintance should 
know what was become of me. Being, in my own apprehen- 
sion, a poor, lost, reprobate creature, I was not willing to 
remain at home, to be a disgrace to my relations and 
country people. This was a day of the deepest affliction 
and distress that I had known. Towards evening, as I 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 21 

followed the plough, my attention was arrested, as it were, 
by a still, small voice, saying, ^^ The blood of Jesus 
Christ his son cleanseth from all sin/^ But I put it by ; 
saying in my heart, *^ It is too late ; there has been a day 
wherein I might have been cleansed ; but, alas ! I have 
let it pass over my head for ever/' Some time after this, 
(perhaps half an hour,) while I was musing on what land I 
should flee to, the same words passed through my mind 
again, with more authority than before, and commanded 
my attention rather more closely than they had done ; 
but I again put them by ; concluding I had lost all right 
to apply them to myself. So I resumed the considera- 
tion of my flight to a foreign land. In the mean time 
my sorrow and anxiety of mind increased ; so that I was 
not well able to support it, or go on with my business. 
But while I was still musing, the same words unsought 
for, and unexpectedly, passed through my mind with 
greater power and authority than at at any time before, 
" The blood of Jesus Christ his son cleanseth us from all 
sin/' At the sound of them my soul leaped for joy. I 
felt that a door of hope was opened, and said in my heart 
" If all siuy why not mine ?^^ Then a living hope sprang 
in my soul. I saw the arms of mercy open to receive 
me, and the way cleared before me as a road through a 
thicket. 

I was now filled with joy unspeakable ; thanksgiving 
and living praise to my Kedeemer arose in my heart for 
the experience of so great and marvellous a deliverance ; 
that my feet should be plucked out of the mire and set 
upon a rock ; that I, who had no hope just before, should 
now be favored with a well-grounded assurance of par- 
don and acceptance, was a mercy never to be forgotten. 

From this time I sought for divine assistance ; and, in 
infinite kindness, a hand of help was extended for my 
restoration, and the healing of my backslidings. Then 
I was enabled to sing upon the banks of deliverance, and 
praise the name of Him who lives for ever. The Holy 
Spirit, that blessed Teacher, with whom I had formerly 



22 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

been favored, but had forsaken, was now restored, as a 
leader and teacher, to direct and instruct me in the way 
to peace and rest. From this time my mind, after such 
great favor, was humbled and made subject to the cross 
of Christ, and heartily willing to take it up, daily, and 
follow him, my kind leader, in the narrow way of self- 
denial. And as I was obedient, he led me to forsake my 
vain course of life, and all those youthful delights and 
sensual pleasures which were displeasing to my dear Lord 
and Master ; who in wonderful mercy had lifted me out 
of the dungeon, and heard my praj^ers in a time of deep 
affliction. He now became my director in all things; 
showing me clearly what my duties were ; and enabling 
me to perform them in an acceptable manner. But if, at 
any time, I acted in my own will, 1 lost my strength, and 
found no acceptance nor benefit by my performances ; by 
which I gradually learnt, that I could do nothing, ac- 
ceptably, without the immediate assistance of the spirit 
of Christ the Kedeemer. Thus I found a necessity to 
apply continually to my only and all-sufficient helper ; and 
humbly to wait for his assistance and direction ; and as I 
was faithful, he led me into the path of life, which, if 
continued in, will terminate in everlasting peace. 

Having gradually learned that nothing of a religious na- 
ture could be effectually done, without the immediate as- 
sistance of the Holy Spirit, I may humbly acknowledge 
that I was wonderfully favored with divine instruction ; 
far beyond my expectation, and infinitely above my de- 
serts. I was led, as it were, by the hand, and helped 
over every difficulty that attended me. But the adver- 
sary of my soul tried every stratagem to draw me aside 
from the path of virtue. He strove, night and day, to 
deter me from walking in the narrow way ; representing 
the difficulties to be so great that I could never hold out 
to the end ; and that all my attempts would be in vain. 
He seemed to be continually present, whether I was 
awake or asleep, disquieting my mind as much as possi- 
ble. But my prayer was incessant for divine aid ; that 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 23 

a stronger than lie might appear for my help, and dis- 
possess him. And, in about a year after I had been 
raised from the pit of despair, as before related, I 
received a promise that ^^the God of peace would bruise 
Satan under my feet shortly/' Faith was given me to 
believe in this promise , and I hoped for a speedy deliver- 
ance. But he continued to afflict me with his assaults, 
with temptations, and evil suggestions, for some months 
afterward. Notwithstanding which, I still believed the 
time would come, according to the promise, and I prayed 
for its fulfilment, in the Lord's time. At length, a 
stronger than he did indeed come, and cast him out, and 
wholly dispossessed him ; and not only bruised him un- 
der foot, but removed him far from me. 

The power of the enemy to assault, or in any wise to 
disquiet me, was now taken away ; neither was he able 
to lay any temptation before m.e. Now was my soul daily 
filled with thanksgiving and living praise for this deliver- 
ance; as well as for all the other manifold mercies and 
favors of God, from day to day, bestowed upon me, "a 
worm and no man.'' To the honor of his great name, 
who hath done marvellous things for me, and to the praise 
of his grace, I may say, that the adversary of all good 
was not only thus prevented from troubling me j but the 
fountain of divine life was opened, and the water thereof 
flowed so freely and plentifully into my soul, that I was 
absorbed in it, and so enamoured thereby, that all the 
riches, honors, and vain pleasures of this world, had no 
place in my affections. In this state I longed to be dis- 
solved and to be with Christ ; which, I was sensible, was 
better than to be here. I do not know that there was 
one moment, whilst I was awake, for the space of nearly 
two years, in which I could not sing living praises to 
him who liveth for ever and ever. No losses, crosses, or 
disappointments did, in any degree, disturb me ; at least 
not perceptibly, either to myself or others ; for my de- 
light was in objects very different from any thing this 
\^-orld can give, or take away. I dwelt as in the mount, 



24 MEMOIRS OF DAYID FERRIS. 

out of my enemy's reach ; and, apparently, out of dan- 
ger from any evil. Here I hoped to remain all the days 
of mj life, and that I never should be moved. 

However strange this relation may appear to many, I 
believe it is strictly true. I am sensible that some, who 
have no experience in things of this nature, may smile 
at this narrative; but others may be glad to see in it a 
relation of circumstances corresponding, perhaps, to their 
own experience of trials passed through, or favors re- 
ceived from the divine and all bountiful band. I have 
no vanity in penning this account ; but rather a fear, lest 
the succeeding part of my life should not correspond 
with the favors conferred upon me, by a gracious bene- 
factor ; as stated in the preceding account. 

While I dwelt as on the mount, as before related, my 
spiritual eyes were opened ; my understanding enlight- 
ened and enlarged. I then wondered to see that the 
world, as far as my knowledge of it extended, was more 
in show than substance ; better in appearance than in re- 
ality ; that even the true form of godliness was too little 
to be seen. I had conceived that the people among 
whom I was educ; ted were better than the other profes- 
sors of Christianity , but when my eyes were thus 
anointed, to see clearly, I found very little true religion 
among them. Primitive purity appeared to be very much 
lost. I was affected with sorrow and mourning, on ac- 
count of the great declension among the professors of the 
Christian religion, in general : for the more I was con- 
cerned to examine the subject, and sought for divine wis- 
dom, the stronger were my convictions, the clearer my 
views, of a general apostacy ; that a life of self-denial, a 
dwelling under the cross of Christ, was very little re- 
garded. 

Before this period I had had a desire to acquire a know- 
ledge of the languages, and other learning, and now my 
mind became satisfied that it would be right for me to 
pursue these objects; but, before I give an account of 
my progress in this pursuit, I will recur to a subject men- 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 25 

tioned before. It was said, that in tlie year 1727, sonfe 
of mj companions were brought under a concern for their 
future happiness. This concern spread, and so increased 
among the young people, at New-Milford, that it became 
general. Many that had spent much of their time in 
vanity and mirth, were, at this period, exercised for their 
eternal welfare; crying out, as some did formerly. '^ What 
shall we do to be saved ?" I think there were nearly 
sixty of us, in about one year, who joined in close com- 
munion with the Presbyterians, in the participation of the 
bread and wine. As we were faithfal in the discharge 
of our duty, as far as it was manifested to us, and en- 
deavored to advance in the path of virtue, our understand- 
ings became illuminated, so as to perceive some things in 
a different light from that in which they were seen by our 
fellow professors ; both with respect to practical and doc- 
trinal points. Sometimes we ventured to mention some 
of our sentiments, on subjects in which we apprehended 
there was a difference between us, which soon involved us 
in trouble. 

We were accused of holding heretical opinions ; and 
brought before the church to answer the accusation. 
Neighboring ministers were called to deal with us, on this 
occasion ; but they made little of it. I had previously 
stated, in writing, the points of difference between us ; 
with the reasons for our dissent ; and when the congre- 
gation met to deal with us, I presented it to them, where- 
upon a committee was appointed, to examine the docu- 
ment, and to judge whether it would be proper to read it 
in that assembly. On their return, they reported favor- 
ably, and it was read. When any difficulty occurred, I 
was desired to explain my meaning, which I did accord- 
ingly. After it was read through, they sat silent for 
some time. At length, an ancient man rose, and said, 
^^ If this be all wherein our younger brethren are supposed 
to differ from us, there is nothing in this writing that I 
cannot unite with, and say ' Amen ' to/' Others, of the 
foremost rank, expressed the same opinion ; upon which 

3 



26 MEMOIRS OY DAVID FERRIS. 

it was concluded that our sentiments were not so lietero- 
dox as to prevent communion with us. It was settled 
accordingly ; and we were pronounced members in full 
communion. 

But, notwithstanding this conclusion, a report was cir- 
culated, and generally believed among the people, that 
we were heretics; and I was considered as a leader among 
them. Some called us Quakers ; but we knew nothing 
of that people, and thought it as ill a name as they did; 
though we considered it our duty patiently to bear the re- 
proach cast on us for the Truth's sake. 

But to continue the account of my proceedings relative 
to the acquisition of learning. I first went to the teacher 
in our parish, and staid with him, as a scholar, but one 
month, until he refused to teach me any further, alleging, 
as a reason for his refusal, that my opinions were too 
heretical to admit of my reception into the college ; so 
that my labor would be useless ; or, at least, not answer 
the end proposed. He was a weak man ; and had but 
little experience in religious concerns, in which I had 
now acquired some knowledge ; besides, he was not scholar 
enough to teach me to any purpose ; which made me wil- 
ling to leave him. 

After this I soon concluded to go to Danby, abou 
thirty miles from my father's house, and to place myself 
under the tuition of a teacher whose name was Moss. I 
had heard that he was a good scholar, and a good Chris- 
tian. These qualities I thought would make the situa- 
tion pleasant to me ; and I was not disappointed. Whilst 
1 was preparing to go to him, I was suddenly taken sick, 
and became so ill, that in a few hours it appeared doubt- 
ful whether 1 should recover. I was in hope that my 
departure was at hand; thou^ih I did not then see how 
I should be disposed of. Whilst I was lying very ill, 
though my understanding was calm and clear, and my 
will fully resigned, my mother came to me, and asked 
me if I thought I should die with that illness. I an- 
swered, I did not know how that might be; but should 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. '11 

be glad to leave this vporld, if it were the will of God. 
After some farther discourse, rny mother left me alone; 
and soon after, my soul (as I apprehended) departed from 
the body. On which I was filled with joy ; concluding 
I had done with this world, and all its troubles. Being 
now freed from the shackles of mortality, I went on re- 
joicing toward the land of bliss with great alacrity of 
soul, and as I departed, I thought I saw my body lying a 
lifeless lump of matter. But as I went forward, I was 
met by some excellent person whom I took to be the S( n 
of God ] and who informed me that I must not go ] say- 
ing, "• Thou must return to the body; thou shalt not die 
but live, and declare the wonderful works of the Lord.'' 
I was troubled to think of returninf>:, to be confined to a 
body of clay. However, I stood still, musing and wait- 
ing for direction ; when it appeared to be my duty to sub- 
mit. I then said, ^^ The will of the Lord be done,'' 
and immediately I was in the body. Soon after this, 
my mother came again into the room, and repeated 
the question she had put to me before; to wit, whether 
I thought I should die at that time. I answered, " I 
shall not die with this illness." She seemed surprised 
that I should answer so positively, and without hesitation; 
and then queried how I knew that. ^^For," said sh@^, 
^^ you told me, about an hour ago, that you did not know 
whether life or death would be your lot at this time." I 
then gave her an account of the circumstances just re- 
lated; which satisfied her respecting my confident an- 
swer. She was filled with joy, and thankful acknow- 
ledgement to the Fountain of all Good, that I was re- 
stored to her, and that he had been so propitious to me 
as to reveal his will in so clear and indubitable a man- 
ner. At this time my mother and I were both Presbyte- 
rians ; and continued in that profession several years af- 
ter this event. 

Being now sensible that my continuance here was re- 
quired for a longer season, I became very thoughtful, 
lest I had been mistaken in supposing I had obtained the 



28 MEMOIRS OE DAVID FERRIS. 

knowledge of ray divine Master^s will, respecting my 
learning the languages, &c., and was brought into a strict 
examination, whether I was in the way of my duty in 
making the attempt; for I had now a clearer sight that 
human learning was insufficient to prepare for the minis- 
try of the Grospel than I had before. Being humbled, 
and self entirely reduced, I was willing, if I could dis- 
cover that my attempt was wrong, to acknowledge my 
fault to him who knoweth all things; repent of my rash- 
ness; and confess my error ; especially to those to whom 
I had made known my intentions on the subject. I had 
told some of my companions that I saw it my duty to ac- 
quire learning ; and some considerable time before there 
was any probability of it, I had gone so far as to say that 
I should obtain it. If, therefore, I had been mistaken, 
there was now great need of my knowing it, and making 
proper acknowledgments on every hand ; and to be more 
careful in future, not too easily to take anything for 
granted, and then report it as a certainty. During 
this sickness, which continued about three weeks, I earn- 
estly desired that I might receive wisdom, to direct me 
in a way acceptable to the Lord ; and although I had a 
strong desire for the acquisition of knowledge, yet I was 
willing to submit to the disposing hand of Providence ; 
and durst not ask fo/anything but with entire submission 
to the Divine will ; being sensible that if I obtained it 
in any other disposition, a blessing would not attend it. 
At length, being on the recovery, and very much exercised 
in mind on the subject, I had, one morning, as I lay in 
bed, such a clear manifestation of the Divine will thereon, 
as left no doubts on my mind respecting the course T 
ought to pursue ; and so I proceeded to prepare for ad- 
mission into college. 

After this I soon recovered and went to the teacher at 
Danby, of whom I had heard so good a character, as be- 
fore mentioned. I was well satisfied with him, as 1 
believe he was with me. He was a religious, tender spi- 
rited man ; and, I believe, ^^ a lover of good men/' in 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 29 

the apostle's sense. After I had been with him some 
time, one of his congregation said to him, '' I understand 
you have a heretic with you, preparing for admission into 
college. ^^ He replied, " I wish all my congregation 
where such heretics as he is." To which his neighbor 
made no reply. This he told me himself soon after it oc- 
curred. I stayed with him six months, when his other 
scholars left him ] and as it did not suit him to attend 
on me alone, I went to one Robert Trett, at New-Mil- 
ford, and spent about six months with him ; when he 
thought me suflSciently learned for admission into col- 
lege. Accordingly I went there, passed an examination 
in relation to my learning, and was admitted without any 
mention of heresy. 

After my admission I endeavored to keep humble and 
to live in the Lord's fear, so as to be a pattern of lowli- 
ness of mind. I was desirous to be serviceable to man- 
kind, and endeavored to keep to that which alone could 
qualify for it. 

Here I think proper to remark, that in one respect I 
was apt to err, until experience taught me better. This 
was in talking too much about religion in my own will 
and time. At length I found it tended to poverty; and 
I learned, when in company, not to be forward to enter 
into any discourse concerning religion, or any other sub- 
ject; but to be content to keep silence and be esteemed a 
fool; until Truth arose, a subject clearly presented, and 
liberty was given for conversation. Then I found a quali- 
fication to speak to the edification of others, and my own 
peace and satisfaction. I mention this for the benefit of 
others ; being convinced that many who have had expe- 
rience of the Truth, and have in some degree witnessed 
a change of heart, have talked so much on religious sub- 
jects, that their souls have become barren ; so as scarcely 
to know when good cometh. 

Now, as T dwelt under a humble sense of my own no- 
thingness, and sought for the direction of Truth, I found 
the Lord to be near by his Spirit, to instruct me in all 

3* 



30 MEMOIRS OF DAVID PERRIS. 

things necessary to be known ; which were clearly mani- 
fested from time to time, as I was able to bear them. 

At my entrance into college my principles generally 
corresponded with those held by the Presbyterians. But 
I now began to think it was time to examine for myself, 
and no longer trust in the judgment of my forefathers. 
I found it necessary to subject my principles and practices 
to a strict scrutiny, because I began to be doubtful of 
some of them. But I was convinced that, as a rational 
creature, simply considered, without a divine instructor, 
I was not competent to the undertaking. I clearly per- 
ceived that all right understanding in spiritual concerns 
must proceed from the immediate revelation of the Holy 
Spirit, and that we could not come to the knowledge of 
God, nor of any thing relating to his kingdom, without it. 
This belief was very different from that held by the 
people I made profession with, so that I had no assistance 
from them. On the contrary, their conversation, their 
preaching and their books were against me. I had no 
outward help but the Bible, and that I could not under- 
stand without Divine assistance. There were no people 
with whom I was acquainted who believed in the light of 
Christ within as I did ; so that I had none to look to for 
instruction, in any difficulty, but to Him. But being very 
desirous to know the truth in all things, I made applica- 
tion to Him who I believe to be the only teacher of his 
people ; and as I waited upon him for instruction, my un- 
derstanding was gradually enlightened, so as to perceive 
many errors in my former creed, and to discover the truth 
in opposition to the doctrines of my education. 

That which stood most in my way, and appeared to be 
a grievous hardship to mankind, as well as a great dis- 
honor to a just and righteous God, was their uncondi- 
tional election and reprobation ; which would, according 
to their apprehension of it, shut out the chief part of 
mankind from all hope of mercy ; as they believed they 
were the Lord's only people, and that but few of others 
were within the pale of election. Yet I believe there 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID EERRIS. 31 

were some amongst them who had a more extensive cha- 
rity. I was much concerned on this subject ; and being 
earnestly desirous to discover the truth, it pleased the 
Lord to open my understanding clearly to perceive the 
error of this doctrine ; and I was enabled to believe that 
Christ, who ^^gave himself a ransom for all/' would ^'have 
all men to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the 
truth/' 

I rejoiced in this discovery ; and when I was fully con- 
vinced of my former error on this subject, I proposed, for 
the consideration of one of my fellow students, whether 
we had not been mistaken in that point of belief. We 
reasoned on the question many times, until he was almost 
convinced that we had been in error on this subject. He 
did not then know that my sentiments were different 
from his own, but supposed that I proposed the question 
only for the sake of argument, and to hear what could be 
said for and against it. I purposely hid my real belief 
from hkn, apprehending it not prudent at that time to 
discover my genuine sentiments. 

By the time we were willing to close the debate on that 
subject I had something new to propose, and as strange 
as new to my opponent. When we were at leisure from 
our studies, we entered into debate upon it ; and so, from 
time to time, we reasoned the point till we were willing 
to leave it. Thus, as things opened to my view, and my 
mind became clear in any point of doctrine in opposition 
to my former belief, I proposed it for his consideration ; 
and so we reasoned upon it as long as we thought expe- 
dient. Thus we proceeded from time to time, debating 
on divers points of doctrine, until my opponent was partly 
convinced of the truths I advanced, and became satisfied 
that I believed in the doctrines I produced for his con- 
sideration. But as I thought it not a proper tijue to 
make my opinions public, I advised him not to expose 
them at present ; to which he consented. We spent our 
leisure time, for two or three years, in discussing religious 



32 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

subjects, new to him, and I but recently convinced of 
the truth of them. 

I had before this period heard of a people called 
Quakers, but was unacquainted with any of them. As I 
had never seen any of their writings, I knew not what 
doctrines they held, but ascribe all my knowledge in di- 
vine things to the inward manifestations of grace and 
truth, the teaching of the Holy Spirit. It was Christ, 
the light of the world, the life of men, who opened to me 
the scriptures, and gave me a discerning of their mean- 
ing ; and as I was faithful and obedient to the pointings 
of Truth, I was favored with further and clearer discove- 
ries thereof. In this state I felt desirous that others 
should come to be acquainted with it, and continued to 
give to my fellow student aforementioned my views on the 
various subjects that presented. We reasoned on them, 
as they were brought under consideration, until we had 
discussed the principal disputable points of doctrine. I 
do not remember that we omitted any thing thfct Robert 
Barclay had treated as a doctrinal point, although, at 
that time, I had not seen any of his writings, nor ever 
heard of them as I remember. 

I have mentioned these things to show that, according to 
Christ's declaration, ^^ If any man will do his will he shall 
know of the doctrine, whether it be of God ;^'* and that 
^^ we need not that any man teach us, but as the anointing 
teacheth us of all things. '^f 

Though we had debated all those points as before re- 
lated, yet, at leisure hours, we again discussed them, and 
became much of one sentiment on the various subjects, 
as will appear when I come to relate the particulars of 
our final separation. 

By this time I had some view of a false ministry and 
a false worship, which had been introduced into ahnost 
all the churches of professing Christians with which I was 
acquainted ; but my sight in these two particulars was not 

^- John vii. 17. f 1 John ii. 27. 



MEMOIRS OF DAYID FERRIS. 33 

SO clear as it was in many others which we had debated. 
Although I perceived a defect in the ministry, yet I did 
not then see that it was altogether wrong, nor did I then 
know that it was wholly of the '^ letter that killeth ;'' but 
afterwards I obtained a clearer sight and knowledge 
thereof At this time I thought as a child and understood 
as a child, with regard to these subjects. And this was 
also my state respecting divine worship. I did not clearly 
perceive that all worship performed in the will of the 
creature, and without the immediate assistance of the 
Holy Spirit, was truly will-worship and idolatry. But in 
process of time I clearly perceived that this was the case* 
After our minds were satisfied on these points, I first met 
with Barclay's Apology. But I must now leave my class- 
mate and our discussions and go back a littld. 

When I had been at college about a year, the rector, 
or chief ruler, sent for me to his house, in order to con- 
verse with me concerning those reports that had been 
circulated of my being a heretic. After I had, at his re- 
quest, seated myself by him, he told me he had a desire 
to hear, from my own mouth, an account of my state, 
adding, that it was not from any dissatisfaction in his 
own mind concerning me, for he was well pleased with 
my conduct since I became one of their members ; that 
he believed the reports were chiefly owing to misappre- 
hension, ignorance and ill-will ; and that he wished to 
know from me the grounds of it. This was the substance 
of his communication. I replied, that if he would be 
pleased to have patience with me, I would give him a 
plain account, and be as brief as I well might, to be in- 
telligible. I gave him a relation of my first setting out 
on my religious journey ; of my travels, exercises and ex- 
perience to that day, which took up about an hour and a 
half, as I supposed. He was all this time very quiet and 
attentive, not giving me the least interruption. I thought 
he listened with much satisfaction. When I had con- 
cluded we sat silent for some time. He seemed to be so 



34 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

mucli affected that he could not easily speak. After re- 
covering, he said, " Ferris, I bless God for giving you 
eyes to see what you see/' He said nothing more to me, 
except just to inform me that he was well satisfied with 
that opportunity, and so dismissed me, 

I do not know that I concealed from him any of the 
principles I held at the time referred to, when I was 
called a heretic ; but I did not unfold to him all my views 
at the time I was speaking, being sensible he could not 
bear it. He was a sincere professor and a lover of good 
men, and afterwards showed a kind regard for me ; say- 
ing more in my favor than I apprehended I deserved, al- 
though not more than he believed to be true. And this 
was .the case with many others whose expectations of my 
future usefulness had by some means been raised ; in con- 
sequence of which I was much esteemed by the most 
worthy class of people ; but being kept humble and low 
in my mind, and seeing my own weakness and infirmity, 
I was preserved from the snares of popularity, although 
they made my trials the greater, as will appear in the proper 
place. 

After this interview with the rector I resumed my 
studies, which I pursued with diligence, being desirous to 
be found in the way of my duty in every respect, that a 
blessing might attend my undertaking. I was careful of 
my thoughts, words and actions, endeavoring to be ex- 
emplary and serviceable to all about me. 

I now became increasingly thoughtful on religious sub- 
jects. The doctrines I had been taught, and the way of 
worship in which I had been educated, were subjects of 
anxious concern. I was desirous to ascertain whether 
they would bear a strict scrutiny. On trial I found them 
defective ; and hence arose the many debates I had with 
my class-mate, as before related. 

About the middle of the last year of my residence at 
the college, I met with Barclay's Apology ; and after 
reading it I let my class-mate also peruse it, with whom 
I had before discussed the doctrines there treated of. He 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 85 

read the work attentively, and made little or no objection 
to it, but told me Barclay's arguments were unanswerable. 
Several other thoughtful scholars, to whom I lent the 
book, after they had read it, made the same acknowledge- 
ment, with very little objection or opposition to the rea- 
soning of its author. 

I continued at the college until near the time for taking 
my degrees ; and being convinced of the errors of my edu- 
cation relating to the doctrines we held and the worship 
we performed, I apprehended it was time to consider what 
was best for me to do ', and being favored to see that a 
qualification or commission derived from man was not 
sufficient for the gospel ministry, I concluded not to take 
their degrees, nor depend upon their authority. 

Although I agreed with Barclay on doctrinal subjects, 
yet I knew not that I could join with the Quakers, or 
any other people with which I was acquainted. 1 still 
continued a member of the Presbyterian society, attended 
their meetings, and partook of their bread and wine. But 
I was not free to sing with them, not having been, for 
some time before, in a condition to sing • besides, it did 
not appear to me an acceptable sacrifice, or any thing like 
divine worship, for a mixed multitude to sing that of 
which they knew nothing by experience. My exercise 
of mind daily increased; for now the time was near at 
hand in which I must leave them. This was a day of 
trial J for, although at the commencement of my religious 
progress, I had forsaken all the youthful delights and 
vanities with which I had been diverted, and had been 
enabled to trample them all under my feet, expecting 
never again to encounter such difficulties ; yet, now I 
found that self was not sufficiently mortified in me. To 
be brought down from the pinnacle of honor; to be es- 
teemed a fool ; to be trampled under foot by high and low, 
rich and poor, learned and unlearned, was hard to bear. 
As I observed before, I had been much esteemed, though, 
as I was sensible, more than I deserved. I knew the 
people had undue expectations of my future usefulness. 



36 MEMOIRS OF DAVID TERRIS. 

and tliat if I left the college, as I thought it my duty to 
do, my credit would sink, and my honors be laid in the 
dust; and then, instead of being caressed and exalted, f 
must be neglected and despised. 

But I had other difl&culties to encounter. My father 
looked forward with hope that I would be an honor to 
him and his family. He had promised to set me out in 
the world in the best manner his circumstances would 
admit. I knew, that if T were obedient to my convictions 
of duty, he would regard it as a disgrace to my family 
and connexions ; and would be more likely to turn me 
out of his house, than in any way to assist me. Besides, 
I had heard of a vacancy for a minister, and that the 
people were waiting for me to occupy it. The congrega- 
tion was numerous ; a larger salary was offered than any 
I knew of in that part of the country; and I was informed 
that the rulers of the college had been consulted on the 
occasion. 

Here, if I complied with my sense of duty, I must 
" take up the cross,^' and turn out naked into the world, 
for I had very little property of my own, none to expect 
from my father, and no salary to support me. Many 
would regard me as the off-scouring of all things, fit for 
nothing. 

I labored under a lively sense of all these difBculties. 
Poverty and disgrace stared me in the face ; and, as I 
had none but the Lord to whom I could make known my 
distress and discouragements ; nor any other of whom to 
ask counsel; I cried to him incessantly for wisdom, 
strength and fortitude ; that I might be favored with a 
clear discovery of my duty, and enabled faithfully to obey 
him in all things. 

At this time, my trials and difficulties were so numer- 
ous, that I was ready to conclude with Job, that I should 
<^die in my nest.^' I feared I should never be able to 
resign all my interest, honor and credit in the world; 
submit to a state of poverty ; and incur the disgrace of a 
reputed heretic ! These difficulties were presented to my 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 37 

view, and magnified to the highest degree that any one 
can imagine. In the height of my distress I entered my 
closet or study, and thus poured out my complaint before 
the Lord : ^^0 Lord ! I know not what to do, in this day 
of deep distress and anxiety of soul. I am not suffi- 
ciently clear respecting my duty in the undertaking and 
execution of an affair of so much importance. Ail that 
I have in this world that is valuable, and my everlasting 
happiness also, is now at stake.'' 

My present situation appeared so important, that if I 
mistook my course, and took a wrong direction, all might 
be lost forever. If I should be led by a spirit of error 
and confusion, I might offend my Maker and my fellow- 
creatures ; forever remain in a dark wilderness ; and never 
be restored to favor with God or good men. 

Darkness prevailed over me so far at that time, that I 
seemed to be placed in the situation of John the Baptist, 
when he sent two of his disciples to inquire of Christ, 
*' Art thou he that should come, or look we for another ? '' 
— I was almost ready to despair, and to conclude that I 
was altogether wrong in proposing to take a step so con- 
trary to reason, as this now appeared to be. Thus I 
poured forth my complaint, and mourned before the Lord, 
I had none to depend upon but bim, nor any other of 
whom to ask counsel in my distressed circumstances. My 
dependance was wholly on him for wisdom and direction, 
in this trying and afflicting situation. 

It is difficult to conceive, and not in my power to express, 
the anxiety of my mind in this proving season ; for every 
thing valuable seemed in danger of being totally lost. 
Nevertheless, I cried to the Lord for help; and covenanted 
with him, that if he would be pleased to direct me in the 
way which would be safe for me to pursue, manifest bis 
will therein, and afford me assistance to perform my 
duties, I would resign all to his disposal; obey his will; 
no longer reason with flesh and blood; but trust to his 
providence for support and credit in the world ; and for 
everything else he might deem best and most convenient 

4 



38 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

for me. For I was now clearly convinced, that if I did 
not resign everything, when it was evidently manifested 
to be my duty, I had nothing to expect but death, as to 
my spiritual condition. 

Whilst 1 was thus bemoaning my condition before the 
Lord ; waiting upon him for direction, with ardent prayers 
for his assistance and wisdom to guide me in the right 
way, he was graciously pleased to show me that he was 
about to bring the church out of the wilderness, or wan- 
dering state in which she had long been destitute of the 
true leader. And he made it clearly known to me that 
it was his will I should go forth, and be an instrument 
in his hand for the accomplishment of this design. 

As soon as I was satisfied on these points, I reasoned 
not with flesh and blood, but immediately gave up to the 
heavenly vision. I then went to the chief ruler of the 
college, and obtained his permission to go home ; but I 
told no one my reasons for this procedure. 

This was a trying time. I was about to take an im- 
portant step. Like Gideon, I was desirous to *^ turn the 
fleece ; to wait in retirement for wisdom, maturely to 
consider this weighty undertaking, which now pressed 
heavily on my mind. After staying at home about three 
weeks, the will of my divine Master, relating to my re- 
moval from college, was satisfactorily manifested. With- 
out making known my purpose, I returned to the college 
and settled my afiairs, in order to leave it. Whilst I 
was preparing to depart, a report was spread among the 
scholars that I was turned Quaker, and was going to 
leave them. Yet I did not hear that any of them ut- 
tered a hard or railing word against me. The rector, 
Elisha Williams, took an opportunity to converse with 
me. He was very moderate, but said he was sorry for 
my conclusion ; that, heretofore, he had entertained a 
good opinion of me, and an expectation that I would be 
useful in my day; but now his hopes were in great 
measure frustrated. We had much conversation on the 
subject; he signified he did not give me up for lost. He 
appeared serious, and we parted good friends. 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 39 

As the time for my departure drew near, being wlioily 
resigned to the Lord's will, the cloud was removed from 
my tabernacle ; my sight was clear ; my courage re- 
turned ; and the mountains, whose tops so lately ap- 
peared to reach the clouds, where all laid as level as a 
plain ; the sea was driven back ; so that there was noth- 
ing to interrupt my passage. I went over all, as on dry 
land, and not a dog was suffered to move a tongue against 
me. Then was my soul filled with living praise; thanks- 
giving and rejoicing in the Lord ; who had triumphed 
gloriously. He was my strength, my song, and my sal- 
vation. The deeps covered my enemies ; they sank to 
the bottom as a stone. The right hand of the Lord was 
glorious in power ; and I sang his praises ; for he was 
worthy ; having done great things for me. 

Before I left college I told the rector of my intentions, 
and that I did not know that I should return ; but if I 
should change my mind, and wish to take a degree, if it 
would be permitted, perhaps I might come back for that 
purpose : if I should conclude not to return, I would 
write to him and give him my reasons for such conclu- 
sion. He replied, and told me I should be welcome to a 
degree ; and that it would give them pleasure to grant 
me one. 

While I was preparing for my journey, my class-mate, 
before mentioned, being desirous to ride one day with me, 
obtained permission. The rector told him, that I might, 
perhaps, instil bad principles into him, and lead him 
astray. To which my friend replied, '' I have lived a 
great part of the time since I came to the college with 
him, and I believe he has done me no harm ; but contra- 
riwise. '^ Then, having bidden them all farewell, we de- 
parted. 

I thought it a favor that one of my fellows who was in 
good credit, and esteemed none of the least in the college, 
should be willing so far to take up the cross, as to ac- 
company me, who was deemed a heretic, a Quaker, or 
they knew not what ) but feeling a degree of love for 



40 MEMOIRS OF DAYID FERRIS. 

me, it made liim fearless of shame or any disgrace that 
might ensue. 

As we rode along, we discussed all the doctrines which 
we had formerly debated ; and he appeared almost as 
much convinced of the truth of my sentiments as I was. 
Near night, when we were about to separate, he said, 
^^ Ferris, I believe you are right in leaving the college. I 
believe your principles are sound and good ; but I do not 
see, at present, that I am called to do as you have done. 
If, at any time hereafter, I should see it to be my duty 
to follow your example, I purpose to have no will of my 
own ; but submit and obey the will of my Master.'' We 
bade each other farewell, and I saw him no more; but I 
afterwards heard that to follow my example was a cross 
too heavy for him to bear. He took to preaching for a 
living among the Presbyterians j and never left them to 
my knowledge. 

After I had parted with my companion, I went on to 
New-Milford, where my parents and relations resided. 
About three weeks afterwards, I went to a Yearly Meeting 
of the people called Quakers, on Long-Island ; in order 
to discover whether they were a living people of not ; for 
a living people I wished to find. I had thought for seve- 
ral years before that there ought to be such a people ; a 
people who had life in them, and abounded in love to 
each other, as did the primitive Christians ; a people who 
knew they had passed from death unto life, by their love 
to the brethren. Here I gathered strength, and was 
more confirmed that I was right in leaving the college ; 
for I found a living, humble, heavenly minded people ; 
full of love and good works ; such a one as I had never 
seen before. I rejoiced to find that which I had been 
seeking ] and soon owned them to be the Lord's people ; 
the true church of Christ; according to his own descrip- 
tion of it ; where he says, ^^ By this shall all men know 
that ye are my disciples, if ye love one another.'' I also 
fouad they held and believed the same doctrines, the 
truth of which had been manifested to me immediately 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 41 

by the Holy Spirit. Being the same that Kobert Bar- 
clay had laid down and well defended in his Apology. 
Before I had read this work, I did not know there was a 
people on earth who believed and lived in the truth, as 
described by Barcia;y ; but here I found a numerous so- 
ciety who held the same truths, and lived an humble, 
self-denying life; becoming the character of Christians. 
I was indubitably satisfied that their worship was in spi- 
rit and in truth ; and they such worshipers as the Father 
sought and owned. I was convinced, beyond a doubt, 
that they preached the gospel ia the demonstration of the 
spirit ; and divine authority was felt to attend their min- 
istry. They were not like the scribes, to whom I had 
been listening all my life ; who had neither commission 
nor authority, except that which was received from man ; 
being such as the Lord never sent ; and therefore could 
not profit the people they professed to teach. I now clearly 
saw the difference between man-made ministers, and those 
whom the Lord qualifies and sends into his harvest field; 
the difference between the wheat and the chaff; and it 
was marvellous to me, to reflect how long I had sat under a 
formal, dry and lifeless ministry. 

At the meeting before mentioned, there were several 
eminent ministers from Europe, both male and female. I 
there heard women preach the gospel, in the divine au- 
thority of Truth; far exceeding all the learned rabbles I 
had known. This was not so strange to me as it might 
have been to others; fori had before seen, by the im- 
mediate manifestation of grace and truth, that women, 
as well as men, might be clothed with gospel power ; and 
that daughters as well as sons, under the gospel dispensa- 
tion, were to have the spirit poured upon them, that they 
might prophecy ; and though I had never before heard a 
woman preach, yet I now rejoiced to see the prophecy 
fulfilled. 

After I returned home from the yearly meeting, I wrote 
a letter to the Hector of the college, informing him that I 
had determined not to return ; and that I could not, with 

4* 



42 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

freedom, take any authority that man could give. I also 
informed him, that since I left them, I had heard women 
preach the gospel far better than any learned man I had 
ever heard. 

Having now left the college, and separated myself from 
the people with whom I had been educated, I saw great 
cause of thankfulness to the Author of all good, who had 
revealed to me the errors of my youth, and the falsity of 
the doctrines imbibed in my education ; who had made 
known to me his truth and people, so that I had no doubts 
remaining. It now became my principle concern that I 
might be enabled to walk in the truth, and witness the 
Holy Spirit to lead me on my way. 

In this state I admired the boundless goodness, the 
infinite kindness and tender mercy of a gracious God, in 
effecting my late deliverance ; especially when I considered 
how tempestuous were the seas, and how the billows 
rolled over me; how the mountains of opposition raised 
their lofty heads to stop my passage ; and again, in a short 
time, how the winds and seas were hushed and still ; and 
how the mountains became a perfect plain ! I truly found 
as great cause to sing upon the banks of deliverance, as 
Israel did of old, when they had passed through the sea 
on dry ground, and had turned about and seen their ene- 
mies dead on the shore. I rejoiced in the Lord and sang 
praises to Him, who for me had done marvellous things ; 
who had made me acquainted with his blessed Truth, and 
at length gave me ability to trample the world, and all 
its riches, honors and pleasures, under my feet ; to sub- 
mit to the cross of Christ, and be willing to be accounted 
a fool of all men. For which favors I felt myself under 
great obligations to my gracious Benefactor. 

I will now return to a former part of my narrative, and 
give some account of my reception by my relatives. After 
I had parted with my class-mate, on my way home from 
college, I heard that my father had received intelligence 
of my intentions, and was much dissatisfied with my pro- 
ceedings, saying, " If the accounts I have heard be true, 



MEMOIRS OP DAVID FERRIS. 43 

I desire he may never come to my house again/' Being 
thus informed, I went to my brother's. After some days 
I went to see my father. He would not speak to me ; 
but turned and passed away without taking notice of me. 
In a few days afterwards I went a second time ; but he 
still refused to speak to me. After a few days I went 
the third time, and met him at the door, and asked after 
bis healthy at the same time pulling off my hat, (for at 
that time I was not convinced of the necessity of bearing 
a testimony against hat-honor ;) he replied, he was not 
very well, and passed away. I then went into the house, 
and my father returning, we sat down and entered into 
conversation. He said he had heard I had left the college 
and turned Quaker. In reply, I told him it had been 
my endeavor, for some years past, to follow my divine 
Leader, and that I still endeavored to attend to the same 
Guide, and follow whithersoever he might lead me ; that 
I apprehended he had led me to leave the college, and for- 
sake the way of my education; and it was possible that 
the same Guide might some time lead me to join the 
people called Quakers ; but that, as yet, I knew but little 
of them. After some time spent in conversation of this 
kind, my father queried what need there was to forsake 
the way of my education ; ^' for," said he, ^^ the Lord has 
favored you, and been with you in the Presbyterian way; 
so that if you continue to fear and serve him in that way, 
you may do well, and will, no doubt, end in peace." I 
answered, it was true I had been much favored under my 
former profession ; the Lord had been near me, and his 
living presence with me. He had led and guided me by 
his good Spirit, and had revealed his will to me far be- 
yond any thing I had deserved, or could have expected ; 
and I still desired to follow that Teacher who had never 
led me astray, but had brought me, step by step, from one 
degree of experience to another, until I was obliged to 
leave the college, and bear a testimony against the for- 
mal profession I had made ; and thus he had led me to 
the present time. 



44 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

Thus we conversed for some hours ; mj father raising 
objections to the Quakers, and my joining with them. 
But, through divine assistance, (with which I think I 
was favored,) I was enabled fully to answer all his objec- 
tions, so that he was willing to leave the subject, and 
became moderate, and apparently more easy in his mind. 
From that time, during the remainder of his life, although 
he had many opportunities, he never entered into any 
arguments with me on religious subjects, but was always 
kind and aifectionate. I thought he concluded I might 
do well in the way he found me, and so remained satis- 
fied. 

After I had been some time at home, new objections 
arose in my mind against a compliance with the customs 
of those among whom I resided ; such as bowing and 
scraping ; putting off the hat ; saying, ^^ your servant, sir, 
madam,^^ &c., and against using the ungrammatical, cor- 
rupt language of '^ you '' to a single person. Although, 
in past years, I had known various exercises, and thought 
I had learned many hard lessons, yet I found much in me 
that required mortification, and that I yet had many 
things to learn. To refuse the use of the plural language 
to a single person, although it seemed a small matter, yet 
I found it hard to submit to it. I was convinced that 
the common mode of speaking in the plural number to a 
single person, was a violation of the rules of grammar, 
and unscriptural. I also believed the pride of man had 
introduced the custom, yet I thought it was not necessary 
to make myself ridiculous to all about me for a matter of 
so small importance. So long, therefore, as no necessity 
was laid upon me to take up the cross in that respect, I 
continued to use the language of my education. Yet I 
used compliments sparingly, because the disuse of them 
was not so observable. However, it was not long before 
I found it my duty to say ^' thee '^ and " thou '' to every 
individual. Nevertheless, I found an inclination or 
temptation so to turn the conversation as to shun this 
mode of speech ; yet this did not afford peace. Small as 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 45 

the matter appeared, I could not be easy without being 
entirely faithful in every respect ; and my duty in this 
particular being clearly manifested, I reasoned no longer 
with flesh and blood, but submitted to the requiring. It 
was a rule with me to do nothing of this kind by imita- 
tion ; but, when any thing was required of me, to submit; 
and thus I obtained peace. 

About this time, several scholars coming from the col- 
lege, invited me to accompany them on a visit to the 
minister in our settlement ; and accordingly I went with 
them. We walked with our hats under our arms, and so 
entered the house. Just as we were about to depart, I 
was required to bear a testimony against the hat-honor. 
So I rose put on my hat, went to the priest, and bade him 
farewell, without putting my hand to it or bowing my 
body. This being the first time I had refused these 
compliments, it was a close trial ; and it appeared re- 
markable that it should be required of me at such a time 
and in such a company ; but neither the priest nor ray 
companions took notice of it, so as to make any remark. 
My obedience afforded me great peace ; and by yielding 
to these inward motions of the sure Guide in small things, 
I gained strength, and was more and more confirmed that 
I was right in making such a change. 

I now began to lay asid^ some of the superfluities of 
my dress, and to appear like a Quaker; believing it was 
required of me not to hide myself in any respect, but 
boldly to bear a testimony to the truth, so far as it was 
clearly manifested to me. I did not then wonder that 
people admired at our folly (as they think it to be) in 
making ourselves a laughing-stock and by-word, by our 
singularities ; because, so it appeared to me but a short 
time before I was obliged to submit to it. I loved the 
honor and esteem of men as well as others, and would 
have enjoyed it, if I could have had it with peace of 
mind ; but that is not allowed in the school of Christ, 
where nothing will do without self-denial and taking up 
the daily cross ; and if, on our part, there be a full sub- 



46 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

mission in every respect, I can say from experience, that 
our peace will flow as a river. 

Having left the college without taking a degree, it was 
probable I should have no salary to depend on for sub- 
sistence. I had disobliged my father, and of course had 
nothing to expect from him, and I had but little of my 
own to support me. And now, being come to the twenty- 
fifth year of my age, I began to think it necessary to use 
some endeavors to obtain a livelihood. I had for several 
years before this period thought I should go to reside in 
Pennsylvania; and this prospect now opened so clearly, 
that I was inclined to believe it was my duty to go there. 
I according made ready and went, in company with three 
ministering friends from Europe, then on a religious visit 
to America. We arrived in Philadelphia about the middle 
of the Sixth month, 1733. 

Here ends that part of my narrative which was written 
in my youth in the Latin language. 

As I observed before, I arrived in Philadelphia in 1733. 
I concluded that if I could establish myself in business 
that would be likely to answer, I would, for some time, 
make the city my residence. After the Yearly Meeting 
was over, and I had become a little acquainted with 
Friends, and known among them, I proposed to open a 
school, to teach the Latin and Greek languages. But, 
as I was a stranger, and those children that were intended 
to be taught these languages were mostly entered in other 
schools, I was doubtful whether T should be able to get a 
suSicient number of such scholars. I therefore agreed to 
teach English also; and, in time, I had a school, of both 
sexes, sufficiently large for my support. 

Being a stranger, I consequently met with trials and 
difficulties. For a while my school was small and not 
likely to support me; but I endeavored to be resigned, 
and repose with confidence in an all-sufficient Providence, 
from whom I had often received help in times of great 
trial. My difficulties were increased by the low state of 
mj funds, The weather was now beginning to grow 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 47 

cold. It was customary for the teacher to find wood for 
fuel, and for the scholars to pay a proportion of the ex- 
pense when they paid for their quarter's tuition ; and as I 
had but few scholars, and no money yet due, and not two 
shillings of my own' remaining, I was very thoughtful 
how to procure wood. No one knew the state of my 
purse, nor did I desire to make it known ; and this I 
should do if I attempted to borrow. I therefore omitted 
to buy as long as I well could. I did not like to ask for 
credit, and if I did, it was doubtful whether I should ob- 
tain it ; so that I was closely tried. But, while T was 
under this exercise, the weather was more moderate than 
usual at that season. After I had been sufficiently tried, 
to prove my faith and confidence in divine Providence, a 
Friend came into my school and privately gave me twenty 
shillings,* which, he said, had been sent by a Friend, 
who did not wish to be known as the donor. For this 
unexpected favor I was thankful to the Lord, whose mer- 
cies endure forever. Having now the means, I soon pur- 
chased some wood ; and the weather, in a short time, 
becoming colder, I had a renewed sense of the kindness 
of Providence, who had so seasonably relieved me. But 
afterwards, when my stock of wood was nearly exhausted, 
I was brought into the same difficulty and trial as before, 
and as much needed a renewal of my faith. 1 vstrove to 
be quiet, and to have my dependence placed on Him who 
fed a great multitude with a few loaves and little fishes ; 
and just as I began to sufi*er, another twenty shilling bill 
was privately presented to me by an unknown hand ; but 
I received it as coming from the Lord, who knew all my 
difficulties. 

Thus was I again relieved; and never, afterwards, re- 
ceived anything more in this way ; nor did I ever need 
it ; as I was sufficiently supplied by the proceeds of ray 
business. This was a confirmation to me, that I had been 

• Twenty shillings, in 1733, would probably be equally valu- 
able with ten dollars in 1825. 



48 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

assisted by a watchful Providence, who knows all states 
and conditions, both internal and external; and is able 
and willing to turn the hearts of his people, and constrain 
them to help the needy ; as, formerly, he sent the ravens 
to feed the prophet. 

I have made these few remarks for the sake of those 
who may be in similar circumstances, and stand in need 
of faith and confidence in the care of divine Providence, 
over his dependent people ; desiring they may afford them 
encouragement to put their trust wholly in the Lord, and 
not faint in the day of inward or outward trials. 

After I had been about six months in Philadelphia, I 
requested to be taken into membership with Friends ; 
and was, accordingly, received. Some time after I had 
joined the Society, 1 began to think of settling myself, 
and to marry, when the way should appear without ob- 
struction ; which was not then the case. I considered 
marriage to be the most important concern in this life. 
^' Marriage," said the apostle, ^' is honorable in all." I 
concluded he meant that it was Jionorahle to all who mar- 
ried from pure motives, to the right person, and in the 
proper way and time, as divine Providence should direct. 
I believed it best for most men to marry ; and that there 
was, for each man, one \?oman that would suit him bet- 
ter than any other. It appears to me essential that all 
men should seek for wisdom^ and wait for it, to guide 
them in this important undertaking; because, no man, 
without divine assistance, is able to discover who is the 
right person for him to marry ; but the Creator of both 
can and will direct him. And why, in such an impor- 
tant concern, should we not seek for counsel, as well as in 
matters of minor consequence ? There is, moreover, 
greater danger of erring in this than in some other con- 
cerns, from our being too impatient to wait for the point- 
ings of divine Wisdom ; lest by so doing, we might lose 
some supposed benefit It is common for young people 
to think and say, ^' I would not marry such a person; 
for certain reasons : such as the want of beauty, wit, edu- 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 49 

cation," &c. ; and to affirm that they could not love such 
a one ; but we may err by an over-hasty conclusion, as 
well as by any other neglect of our true Guide. 

I now propose to give some hints of my own proceed- 
ings in this concern. Near the place of my residence 
there lived a comely young woman, of a good, reputable 
family; educated in plainness; favored with good natu- 
ral talents ; and in good circumstances. Every view of 
the case was favorable to my wishes. 

By some hints I had received, it appeared probable that 
my addresses would be agreeable to her; and some of my 
best friends urged the attempt. From inattention to my hea- 
venly Guide, I took the hint from man ; and following 
my own inclination, I moved without asking my divine 
Master's advice. I went to spend an evening with the 
young woman, if I should find it agreeable when there. 
She and her mother were sitting together ; and no other 
person present. They received me in a friendly manner; 
but I think I had not chatted with them more than half 
an hour, before I heard something, like a still small 
voice, saying to me, ^^ Seekest thou great things for thy- 
self? — seek them not." This language pierced me like 
a sword to the heart. It so filled me with confusion, 
that I was unfit for any further conversation. I endea- 
vored to conceal my disorder; but soon took my leave, 
without opening, to either the mother or her daughter, 
the subject which had led me to visit them. And I, af- 
terwards, had substantial reason to think it was well for 
me that I had failed in this enterprise. 

I was so confused and benumbed by this adventure, 
that I did not recover my usual state for several months; 
though I could not suddenly see that my error was act- 
ing without permission ; but began to suppose that I 
should never be suffered to marry ; and fihould have to 
pass my life without a companion, or a home. I endea- 
vored to be resigned to this view ; supposing it was the 
Lord's will ; but, for several months, it was a severe trial. 
At length I was brought to submit, and say ^^ Amen." 

5 



50 MEMOIRS OE DAVID FERRIS. 

This simple account of my visit to this young woman, is 
designed as a warning to others : that they may shun the 
snare into which I was so near falling. 

I shall now relate another of my movements, with re- 
spect to marriage, which I believe was a right one ; as it 
terminated to lasting satisfaction. It may appear strange 
to some ; as if I married in the cross ; and, I suppose, 
few will be inclined to follow my example. Yet, if the 
divine Teacher of truth and righteousness be attended 
to, it may be the lot of some. After I had been much 
mortified and humbled, under a sense of my former mis- 
step, I went, one day, to a Friend^s house to dine. As 
I sat at the table, I observed a young woman sitting op- 
posite to me, whom I did not remember ever to have seen 
before. My attention, at that time, being otherwise en- 
gaged, I took very little notice of her ; but a language 
very quietly, and very, pleasantly, passed through my 
mind, on this wase, ^' If thou wilt marry that young wo- 
man, thou shalt be happy with her.'^ There was such a 
degree of divine virtue attending the intimation, that it 
removed all doubt concerning its origin and Author. I 
took a view of her, and thought she was a goodly person ; 
but, as w^e moved from the table, I perceived w^he was 
lame. The cause of her lameness I knew not ; but was 
displeased that I should have a cripple allotted to me. It 
was clear to me, beyond all doubt, that the language I 
had heard was from heaven ; but I presumptuously thought 
I would rather choose for myself. The next day the sub- 
ject was calmly presented to my mind, like a query, 
^' Why should thou despise her for her lameness ? it may 
be no fault of hers. Thou art favored with sound limbs, 
and a capacity for active exertion ; and would it not be 
kind and benevolent in thee, to bear a part of her infir- 
mity, and to sympathize with her ? She may be aflPec- 
tionate and kind to thee ; and thou shalt be happy in a 
compliance with thy duty." Notwithstanding all this, I 
continued to reason against these convictions ; alleging 
that it was more than I could bear. The enemy of my 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 51 

happiness was busily engaged, in raising arguments 
against a compliance with my duty, suggesting that it was 
an unreasonable thing that I should be united to a lame 
wife ; and that every one who knew me, would admire at 
my folly."^ Thus, from day to day, and week to week, I 
reasoned against it; until, at length, my kind Benefac- 
tor, in a loving and benevolent manner, opened to my 
view, that, if I were left to choose for myself, and to take 
a wife to please my fancy, she might be an affliction to 
me all the days of my life ; and lead me astray, so as to 
endanger my future happiness. Or she might fall into 
vicious practices ; notwithstanding that; at the time of 
her marriage^ she might be apparently virtuous ] it was, 
therefore, unsafe to trust to my natural understanding. 
On the other hand, here was a companion prepared for 
me by unerring Wisdom ; so that I might rely with 
safety on the choice. Still I was unwilling to submit. 
But heavenly kindness followed me, in order to convince 
me that it would be best to comply, and no longer resist 
the truth. At length it pleased the Lord, once more, 
clearly to show me that if I would submit, it should not 
only tend to my own happiness, but that a blessing should 
rest on my posterity. This was so great a favor, and 
manifested so much divine regard, that I no longer re- 
sisted ; but concluded to pay the young woman a visit, and 
open the subject for consideration ; but, after I had laid 
my proposition before her, I still had hopes that I might 
be excused ; and only visited her occasionally. During 
this time, for several months, I endured great trials and 
afflictions, before I was fully resigned. But, after divine 
Goodness had prevailed over my rebellious nature, all 
things relating to my marriage wore a pleasant aspect. 
The young woman appeared beautiful ; and I was pre- 
pared to receive her as a gift from heaven ; fully as good 

* The author's person was rather uncommonly good, and it is 
probable he might have thought too highly of personal excel- 
lence. 



52 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS, 

as I deserved. We waited about six months for my pa- 
rents' consent, from New England, (a conveyance by let- 
ter being at that time difficult to obtain,) and accom- 
plished our marriage on the thirteenth of the Ninth month, 
1735, in the city of Philadelphia. 

It is now forty years since we married ; and I can truly 
say, that I never repented it ; but have always regarded 
our union as a proof of divine kindness. I am fully sen- 
sible there was no woman on earth so suitable for me as 
she was. And all those things which were shown me, as 
the consequence of my submission, -are punctually ful- 
filled. A blessing has rested on me and on my posterity. 
I have lived to see my children, arrived to years of un- 
derstanding, favored with a knowledge of the Truth ; 
(which is the greatest of all blessings ;) and some of them, 
beyond all doubt, are landed in eternal felicity. I have 
been blessed with plenty ; and, above all, with peace. I 
am, therefore, satisfied and thankful to my gracious Bene- 
factor, for his kindness to me in this concern; as well as 
for all his other favors; who am not deserving of the 
least of all the mercies and all the truth which he has 
shown to his unworthy servant. 

I have given this relation, so circumstantially, with a 
view to show how incapable we are to see things in their 
true light, until we are truly humbled, and brought into 
subjection to the divine will ; and how unsafe it is for 
poor, frail, short-sighted creatures, to reject so safe a 
counsellor, and trust to their own wisdom, in concerns of 
such importance. Therefore, let all seek that '* Wisdom 
that Cometh from above; which is pure, peaceable, gen- 
tle, and easy to be entreated. '' 

Whilst I was proceeding in my concerns relating to 
marriage, I was also thoughtful concerning the proper 
place to reside ; and the business I should engage in for 
support. I had now kept a school nearly four years ; and 
had partly concluded to resign that employment, on ac- 
count of the confinement necessarily attending it ; and 
having heard of a new settlement, then making in the 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 53 

county of New-Castle, (since called Wilmington,) I was 
inclined to see it, and thought, if it pleased me, I might 
perhaps, settle there. It had been a subject of frequent 
consideration ; but when I mentioned it to my wife, she 
appeared unwilling to leave Philadelphia, as she had lived 
there nearly all her life, and her relations resided in that 
city. But William Shipley and his wife, from Spring- 
field, in Chester county, proposing in a short time, to set- 
tle in Wilmington, I went with them to see the place. It 
pleased me so well that I rented a lot of ground there ; 
and, on my return, told my wife what I had done. She 
thought we would never make use of it. 

In those days, by various trials, exercises, and afflic- 
tions, I was reduced to a very low state. My natural 
powers seemed to be so much weakened, that I could not 
judge what course to take, or how to proceed, in my tem- 
poral concerns, as I had formerly done; or as others 
could do ; so that I saw no way for me to move, with 
prudence or safety, without immediate direction from the 
fountain of W'^isdom. And, I may say, with humility of 
heart, and thankfulness to the God of all mercies, as I 
sought for it, and waited for direction, I sought him not 
in vain. I waited upon him; not daring to move until 
he appeared to point out the way ; and he failed not to 
show me what step I should take, and wben to take it, in 
a wonderful manner. It was marvellous in my eyes ; that 
a poor worm should be thus favored ; and I should not 
venture to mention how particularly I was led, if I did 
not believe it to be my daty. 

Observing how ignorant and thoughtless mankind are, 
in general, of a divine instructor, especially in their tem- 
poral concerns, supposing themselves sufficient to manage 
the affairs of this life, they do not expect or seek for su- 
perior intelligence, I feel anxious for an amendment, 
where vve are out of the true order ; and shall now give some 
hints of my own experience in relation to this subject. 

As before mentioned, 1 had taken a lot of ground in 
W^ilmington ; but as yet it was not clear to me that it 

5* 



54 MEMOIRS OF BAVIB FERRIS. 

would be best for us to reside there ; and mj wife seem- 
ing unwilling to think of it; great were the trials that at- 
tended my mind. 

To move from one place to another, in our own time 
and will, I believe is a matter of serious consequence. A 
change of residence appears to me next in importance to 
marriage ; and, therefore, requires the same Divine wis- 
dom to direct us aright. We may be qualified for ser- 
vice in one place; and, by removing, to a distance, unless 
we are directed by unerring counsel, the designs of Pro- 
vidence respecting us, may be frustrated; and our use- 
fulness lessened. 

Under these considerations I was reduced very low in 
mind : being sensible of my own inability rightly to di- 
rect my course. I was full of cares and fears ; and so 
humbled that I was willing to be or do anything that was 
pleasing to my dear Master ; so that I might be favored 
with a knowledge of his will; even if it were to take my 
axe or spade and labor for the support of my small family. 
Sometimes it appeared best to move, and again the pros- 
pect seemed dark and cloudy. After some months spent 
in anxious solicitude on this subject, light gradually arose 
on my mind, and at length, the prospect of removing to 
the new settlement of which I have spoken, and of keep- 
ing a store for the sale of goods there, appeared so clear, 
that I applied for a house convenient for this purpose, if 
I should conclude to remove. Yet, although I had pro- 
ceeded so far, I was under a daily care lest I should be 
mistaken, and take a wrong step ; so as to bring a re- 
proach on the profession of Truth I had made to the 
world. 

While I was under this concern, I was taken ill with 
the small-pox ; and had it pretty severely. When on 
the recovery, as I sat by the fire one evening, in company 
with my wife, I received a letter from the owner of the 
house, of which 1 had the refusal. He informed me that 
I must write to him the next morning, and say whether 
I would take it or not; as another person had deter- 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 55 

mined to take possession of it. There was no other house 
in the settlement which would be at all suitable for my 
intended business. This brought me into a close trial. 
After I had read the letter to my wife, we sat silent for 
some time. At length she cheerfully said, ^^ \Yell, let 
us go.'' Which I rejoiced to hear; although at that time, 
the prospect was enveloped in darkness. I made her but 
little reply; and being weak in body, and dark in mind, 
I retired to bed. After I had lain some some time^ re- 
volving the difficulties of my situation, with fervent de- 
sires for divine direction, I went to sleep ; and had a 
good night's rest; which I had not enjoyed before, du- 
ring that illness. About the dawn of the day, it seemed 
as if I heard a clear and intelligible language, saying to 
me, '^ Go and prosper ; fear not ; the cattle on a thou- 
sand hills are mine ; and I give them to whom I please. 
Behold I I will be with thee.'' Immediately all my 
doubts vanished ) I saw, with sufficient clearness, that I 
might go with safety ; and hope for a competent subsist- 
ence. These circumstances I related to my wife ; and 
told her of my prospects ; which afforded her encourage- 
ment. I then arose, and wrote to the owner of the 
house ] informing him that I had concluded to take it ; 
and that I hoped to move at the time proposed. Ac- 
cordingly I removed to it, with my family, in the Third 
month, 1737 ; taking with me some goods for my store. 

After our removal, the minds of the people, both in 
town and country, were inclined to deal with us ; and 
we soon sold the few goods we brought from the city. I 
then had occasion to think of '^ the cattle on a thousand 
hills," with heartfelt gratitude to Him who keepeth cove- 
nant with his children, and whose mercies fail not. He 
neither slumbereth nor sleepeth ; but his watchful eye 
regardeth his depending people, as I have ever found. 

I will now give some of my views on the subject of 
business, lawful for Christians to engage in. Children 
may be apprenticed to trades which are inconsistent with 
a Christian profession. For instance, some are taught to 



56 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

make instruments of war; which they who believe in the 
peaceable doctrines of Christ cannot lawfully engage in. 
There are several other callings which I believe Chris- 
tians cannot consistently follow. 

It is the duty of those who profess to follow Christ 
the light of the world, to consider whether the business 
in which they engage, is agreeable to his will ; and, if 
a doubt arise respecting its propriety, to ask counsel, and 
wait for wisdom, to know how to proceed. I was edu- 
cated under a supposition that human learning was suf- 
ficient to qualify me to teach people the way to peace 
and happiness. This was clearly revealed to me to be a 
mistake ; and I had not the shadow of a doubt, that 
they who acquired human learning, to qualify them for 
the gospel ministry, were entirely wrong. In consequence 
of this conviction, I employed myself in teaching a school ; 
which I believe was right for me at that time. And 
when I purposed to enter into another business, being 
convinced that I ought to ask counsel of the great Coun- 
sellor, I did not run in ray own will, and choose my own 
ways. I was satisfied, that, as we were blessed with a di- 
vine Teacher, it was our duty to follow his directions, in 
temporal, as well as spiritual concerns ; especially in 
movements of importance. And when I believed it 
would be right to keep a store, I was desirous that I might 
proceed in the business under the direction of Him who 
seemed willing to teach me. Not having served an ap- 
prenticeship to the mercantile business, I was ignorant of 
the quality and prices of goods ; it was, therefore, proba- 
ble I should be under some difficulty in these respects. 

My mind, as I before observed, was reduced to a very 
low state, so that I felt incapable of conducting my out- 
ward concerns advantageously, unless by divine aid, as 
the way opened in the light. Our little stock of goods 
being nearly all sold, my wife reminded me of our need 
of a fresh supply. I felt no freedom at that time to pro- 
cure any, though I did not tell her the cause of my de- 
lay, only saying I expected soon to go to Philadelphia, 
where we purchased our goods. As I humbly waited for 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 57 

wisdom the never failing fountain was opened. Before 
I rose one morning it appeared clear to me that I might 
proceed in the business, of which I informed my wife. 
She was pleased to hear it, knowing the necessity we were 
under, but admired that I was so tardy in making up my 
mind to go. Being unacquainted with the merchants, 
and ignorant of the quality of goods, I felt my need of an 
instructor, to whom I might safely apply for direction ; 
and as I looked to my divine Guide, I found to my admi- 
ration that He was near to help me. When I went into 
a store to make my purchases, I continued to lay off such 
goods as I thought we wanted, until the way seemed to 
close at that place, and I felt an openness to proceed to 
another. I went accordingly, and acted in the same man- 
ner, as long as I found freedom ; and when the way to 
go further was wholly closed, I gathered my purchases 
together, and returned home. Thus I went on from time 
to time, and from year to year. 

Sometimes when my wife would look over the goods 
I had purchased, she would express a regret that I bought 
certain articles, which she specified ; fearing that they 
might not be saleable. I thought otherwise, and we fre- 
quently found them to sell as well as anything I had 
bought. When I kept near to my divine Director, either 
in my spiritual or temporal concerns, everything pros- 
pered under my hand. I was brought so low that I could 
really do nothing in either case, to any advantage, with- 
out Him. 

The advantages arising from a faithful attention to 
the leadings of the Holy Spirit are very great, far 
greater than my tongue or pen can express ; even 
in the management of our temporal affairs. And, I 
believe, all real Christians might have their un- 
derstandings enlightened, and their eyes anointed, 
clearly to see how to proceed in all concerns of impor- 
tance, provided the pure fear of the Lord prevailed in 
their hearts ; and an humble dependence and full confi- 
dence in the all-sufficient Helper were steadily main- 
tained. I speak from experience. He has been my in- 



58 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

structor in a very particular manner; mucli more so than 
I have mentioned, or than I can describe ; and I am far 
from supposing that I have been more deserving than 
others. Christ said, '' Ask and ye shall receive/^ I 
asked for his direction and assistance, and he helped 
me, and I found the promise true. 

I believe it is consistent with the divine Will, that 
all should have their hope and dependence more fully 
placed in his almighty power; and that they should 
wait for instruction from him, in all their undertakings. 
Thus, their understandings would be enlarged ; their 
ideas would be clear ; and, having submitted all to the 
disposal of divine Providence, who had directed their 
proceedings, they would go forward without any anxious 
cares, or distracting thoughts, respecting events. I know 
this to my comfort. So far as I have conformed to this 
view, a blessing has attended my undertakings, besides 
the blessings of peace and an easy mind. 

But, before I leave this subject, I will observe, that I 
did not always so closely attend to my blessed Instructor 
as I ought to have done : of which I will relate some 
instances. It was the practice of shop-keepers to sell 
rum ; and I was told that if I did not conform to it, I 
need not expect to do any business of importance. So^ 
without waiting for direction, I fell into the practice ; 
and followed it for several years ; until it became a sub- 
ject of uneasiness to me. I found many used that arti- 
cle to the injury, both of body and mind. Some spent 
their estates to procure it ; and thus brought themselves 
and their families into want and distress ; which gave 
me trouble of mind. But, being unwilling to lose the 
profits of this branch of business, I adopted an expedi- 
ent to soothe my pain ; which was, to refuse selling it to 
such as I thought would make an evil use of it. But 
this did not answer my expectations ; for they would 
send for it by those who were not suspected. At length 
I was made to relinquish the profits made on this arti- 
cle; and trust to Providence for the result. I ceased to 



MEMOIRS OF DAYID FERRIS. 59 

sell it ; whicli afforded me peace^ and made no great di- 
minution of my business.* 

It was also customary, in those days, for Friends, as 
well as others, to sell many superfluous articles ; such as 
gay calicoes ; flowered ribbands ; and other fine things ; 
which we, as a society, did not allow our families to 
wear ; and which it was not consistent with our profes- 
sion to encourage in others. With these views, I en- 
deavored to lay aside all such superfluities, and to deal 
in such articles only, as were really useful. f I was told 
that if I refused to sell such goods, I might quit my 
business ; but, as I did it from a sense of duty, I was 
not sensible that I sustained any loss by it. 

After I had been in business several years, and had 
increased in wealth, three or four of my fellow townsmen 
concluded to build a vessel and trade to the West Indies ; 
and, without consulting my kind Instructor, I was pre- 
vailed upon to join them, and continued in the trade for 
some time ; but being favored to see my error, I with- 
drew from the concern as soon as possible, and confined 
myself to the business of my store. As I attended to this 
business, I found I could not feel easy to sell my goods 
for as much as I could get for them, as was the practice 
with many ; but by selling them at a moderate profit I 
obtained peace of mind. 

I am aware that many, and even some who make a 
high profession of religion, will deem my remarks on 
business, marriage, &c., unworthy of notice ; and be ready 
to smile at them, as the whims and notions of a distem- 
pered and enthusiastic brain, because they may have had 
no such experience. Yet there may be others who, having 
had some knowledge of this way, will be glad of these 

* In 1742 by following his diviine Guide, the author of this 
very interestintj narrative took a ground, in relation to the sale 
of distilled spirituous li-quors^ which placed him in advance of 
public sentiment one hundred years ! 

f The consistency of his practice in these ca^es, will be ad- 
mitted by many who are not yet willing to follow his example. 



60 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

remarks ; for I am sure, bej^ond all doubt, that what I 
have written is true, and well worthy of attention.* And 
if men were universally to attend to the direction of Him 
who is come to lead us into all truth, the wars and devas- 
tations now prevailing in our land would not have existed. f 
I will now recur to the time when I first joined the 
Society of Friends. After I was admitted into member- 
ship, I diligently attended all our meetings for worship 
and discipline; and greatly admired the beautiful order 
established in the society, and the living gospel ministry 
with which we were favored. After I had been a member 
about one year, I was concerned to appear in the minis- 
try, and excite the careless to a consideration of their 
^^ latter end.^' I had passed through many vicissitudes 
and tribulations ; but when this concern was laid upon 
me, it seemed heavier than any thing I had ever had to 
bear. I thought I could never be resigned to it. When 
I was called out of the vanities of my youth, and was 
obliged to submit to the cross of Christ, to become a 
laughing-stock and a by-word to my companions and ac- 
quaintances, I was so humbled, so mortified, and ^elf so 
much abased, I thought I could submit to any thing that 
might afterwards be required of me. Again, when I 
passed through that great trial of leaving college, in the 
manner before related, and had to deny all the honors, 
friendships, pleasant connections, and riches of the world^ 
I concluded* I should never again meet with so great a 
trial. But I was mistaken. This far exceeded all I had 
previously encountered. I, however, submitted so far as 
to speak a few times in our meetings ; and then, through 

* When we consider the? superficial state of most religious 
professors, it is no nnarvel they should reject the doctrine of 
spiritual direction in secdlar concerns ; although it will gene- 
rally be granted that our spiritual welfare is clearly connected 
with the state of our domestic and other temporal affairs. It 
was the promise of our Lord to his followers, '* When he, the 
Spirit of Truth, is come, he will guide yoii into all truth "^'^ — John 
xvi. 13. 

t The Kevolutionary war. 



MEMOIRS OP DAVID FERRIS. 61 

great fear that I should not be able to persevere^ I was 
induced to be silent, and postpone the performance of 
this duty until a more '^ convenient season/' or more fall 
manifestation of the divine will. I concluded, that if I 
should continue for any considerable time to appear as a 
minister, and afterwards should be silent, it would bring 
greater dishonor on my profession than thus to cease at 
an early period of such a concern. Sometimes I hoped 
that at a future meeting the trial would not be so severe 3 
at others, that more strength would be granted me. Thus 
I reasoned, from month to month and year to year, during 
seven years. In all which time the concern was often so 
heavy, that I sat and trembled through the time of meet- 
ing, and then went away full of sorrow, trouble and pain 
of heart. 

For several years after this I seldom felt this concern ; 
yet I was still sensible that I had a work of this kind to 
do, and felt great pain in neglecting it. I saw no way to 
obtain peace of mind but by a submission to the cross, 
and becoming willing to be accounted a fool ; and this 
being a severe trial, I evaded it. Sometimes I had a 
faint hope that I should yet obtain strength to proceed in 
the work, at other times I was almost in despair. 

Thus I passed along for fifteen years ; during which 
time my error was manifested to me in various ways. 
Sometimes by the Holy Spirit, showing me that ^* obe- 
dience is better than sacrifice, and to hearken to the voice 
of the Lord, than the fat of rams.'' Sometimes by the 
ministry of his messengers ; and sometimes by dreams, 
&c. Thus, in great mercy, the Lord followed me as he 
did Ephraim of old, saying, ^' How shall I give the up, 
Ephraim ?" 

One night I dreamed that I saw a large, spacious build- 
ing, in an unfinished state ; and the master builder, who 
appeared an excellent person, came to me as I stood at a 
distance, and desired me to go and take a view of it ; to 
which I agreed ; and as we were surveying it, and exa- 
mining the particular parts, I observed that among the 

6 



62 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

many pillars, erected fur the support of the building, there 
was one lacking. I queried of him, what was the cause 
of that vacancy. He replied, it was left for me ; and 
that I was specially designed and prepared for the place, 
and showed me how I fitted it, like a mortise is fitted to 
its tenon. So that I saw in my dream that all he said 
was true. But, notwithstanding all this, I objected to 
my capacity and fitness to fill the vacancy, and was there- 
fore unwilling to occupy it. He endeavored, by the most 
convincing reasons, to remove all my objections, and to 
demonstrate that I was fitted for the place. He further 
told me that they had not another prepared for it; and 
that the building would be retarded if I did not comply 
with the design. After he had reasoned with me a long 
time, and I still refused, he appeared to be grieved, and 
told me it was a great pity that I should be rendered use- 
less in the house by my own obstinacy ; and then added, 
" But it must not be so ; for if thou wilt not be a pillar, 
thou shalt be a plank for the floor/' He then showed me 
how I might be flatted and prepared for that purpose. 
But I refused that place also, on the ground that it looked 
too diminutive to be a plank to be trod upon by all who 
came into the house. At this the master was troubled, 
seeing I would accept no place that was ofiered me ; but, 
after a long debate, he concluded to leave the propositions 
he had made for my further consideration ; and so wc 
parted. 

The next day I was at a meeting on Long Island, and 
a concern came heavily upon me to say something that 
was presented to my mind. The burden of the word was 
weighty, and more difficult to remove than usual ; but I 
contended with it, and at length refused to comply. I 
was then in company with two women Friends travelling 
in the ministry. The following night one of them dreamed 
that she saw me sitting by a pleasant stream of water; 
before me a table was spread with all manner of dainties ; 
but I was chained, so that 1 could not reach any of them ; 
at which she was. troubled, and asked the master of the 
feast why I was deprived of the liberty to partake of the 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 63 

good tilings on the table. He answered, that the time 
had been when, on certain conditions, I might have en- 
joyed them to the full, but that I had refusad the terms, 
and therefore was now justly deprived of them. She in- 
quired of him whether this must always be my case. He 
answered, perhaps not ; that if I would yet submit, and 
comply with the terms, it was not too late to partake of all 
the good things she saw. The interpretation of this 
dream, and of mine the night before, was easy and plain. 
They rested on my mind for several years, as cause of 
humbling instruction, and excitement to future care, dili- 
gence and obedience. 

The next day, as we were travelling towards a town 
where we intended to have a meeting the following day, 
we were informed that a people called the New-Lights 
were to have a meeting there the same day, and that we 
might, probably, get there at the time their meeting was 
sitting. As soon as I heard it, I thought the word of 
the Lord passed through me, saying, ^^ Thou must go to 
that meeting.^'' I knew not the object, but supposed it 
might be to bear a testimony against their errors in wor- 
ship and practice, and to proclaim the truths of the gos- 
pel in their hearing. 1 rode on without speaking to my 
companions, but the concern remained weightily with me. 
I endeavored, as usual, to get from under it, saying to 
my Master, ^^ I am in no wise qualified for the service,^ ^ 
and desiring that he would send by those who were fitted 
for such a work, or, as Moses said, '^ by whom he would 
send,'^ so that I might be excused. Whilst I was strug- 
gling to evade this service, one of the women turned to 
me and said, '^ Why canst thou not go to this meeting 
of New-Lights, and proclaim to them the Truth, as our 
Friends did formerly V^ Her speech added fuel to the 
fire that was burning within me. I thought it came 
with divine authority ; but I made her no reply, having 
before as much as I could well bear. I, however, felt 
an engagement to press forward ; and when we arrived 
at the house where we intended to tarry for refreshment, 



64 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

being under great exercise of mind, I walked backward 
and forward across tbe room. The friend who had spoken 
to me on the road, I observed, was under great exercise 
also. I walked and reasoned as long as I well could. At 
length the power of opposition was overcome, and I was 
obliged to submit. I then observed to the friend, '' I 
believe I must go to that meeting.^' She replied, " I 
believe so also.'^ The landlord, hearing what was said, 
proposed to go with me, and I accepted of his offer. So 
being pressed in spirit to make haste, we set out, and 
coming to the meeting house, I stepped on the door-sill 
to go in, and at that instant the meeting broke up. I 
then stepped aside, and stood still in retirement of mind, 
waiting to know my duty. The people rushed out of the 
house, and I found my mind relieved of concern ; so I 
was easy to return without further service. I believed 
the loill to act, in this case, was accepted for the deed, 
and I returned in peace. 

Thus, was I shown that my divine Master was able to 
bring me to a state of submission to his holy will ; and I 
then concluded, that if he would excuse me from such a 
trying service, I would no longer refuse to speak among 
those of my own persuasion. 

But after all this, I proceeded with a heavy heart, 
being sensible that my work was neglected. It was 
several years after this occurrence, before I fully sub- 
mitted to the divine will ; in all which time I went on 
lamenting my unfaithfulness. Sometimes I had a hope, 
as it were, against hope, that I should obtain a victory 
over that slavish fear which had so long enthralled me. 
At other times I was ready to conclude there was no 
cause to hope for deliverance from it. Yet, during this 
period, I was not wholly forsaken by my divine Master, 
but was enabled to perform, I hope with acceptance, some 
services for him ] such as warning the drunkard, the pro- 
fane swearer and the liar, of the evil of their ways, and 
advising them to repent. Sometimes, during this period, 
I was also concerned to accompany Friends who were 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 65 

engaged to visit religious meetings in distant places, in 
yielding to which I found peace. Yet, when abroad on 
such services, and my call to the ministry was brought 
into view, the sense of my neglect sunk my spirits, and 
pain of heart attended me. Thus I spent more than 
twenty years ! 

Although, as has been mentioned, I had been many 
times invited, and had received indubitable evidence of 
the divine will, both immediately and instrumentally, so 
that every doubt was removed from my mind, yet the 
fear of man, the fear of missing my way, the fear of doing 
more harm than good, prevailed against me ; so that I 
thought I should never be able to submit to the divine 
will concerning me. But towards the termination of the 
aforesaid time I felt more lively, and a concern to appear 
in the ministry revived. Being from home, at a meet- 
ing, I was concerned to say something to the people ) 
but, according to my usual custom, I postponed it till a 
more convenient season. On this account I left the 
meeting in great heaviness and sorrow, for my disobe- 
dience. On the following night I dreamed that I saw 
two generals drawing up their armies in order of battle. 
Each captain had his men in order, ready to obey the 
command of their general, and stood at their head wait- 
ing for orders to march and stand in the engagement 
where he should command them. One of the generals 
came to a captain, who stood near me, and said to him, 
'' You are a valiant man, and skilful in the art of war; 
therefore march into the right wing of the army, and in 
front of the battle. ^^ But the captain objected to the 
post assigned him, and pleaded his unfitness for it, say- 
ing, ^^ It is a place of danger, and requires a man better 
qualified for such a post.''^ The general answered that 
he was well qualified for the place allotted him, and that 
if he took it he might, by his skill and valor, do eminent 
service for his king and country, and gain great honor, 
which would be a means of promoting him to places of 
higher trust. He, however, desired to be excused, and 

6* 



66 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

could not be persuaded to take tlie post assigned him. I 
stood by and heard all the general's arguments to per- 
suade him to comply, until I was filled with indignation 
at the captain's obstinacy, especially as the general had 
absohUe authority to command^ and yet was so kind as to 
use entreat?/ and persuasion. I then said to the general, 
^' It is my judgment that this captain is not worthy of 
the place assigned him, since he refuses to serve his king 
and country according to his capacity, and rejects the 
honor and promotion he might obtain. Were I in the 
general's place, I would set him in the rear of the army, 
where he will have less opportunity of promotion, and 
may lose his life as well as in the front." To this the 
general replied, ^^ The decision is just, and in the rear 
he shall stand,'' where he was accordingly stationed. 

I awoke from my sleep in great distress, under a sense 
of the just judgment which (like David) I had passed on 
myself. From this time, during several months, I was 
on the brink of despair ; concluding I was wholly un- 
worthy to stand in front, and, therefore, should be placed 
in the rear, to be killed in obscurity. After a time of 
great anxiety and distress of mind, the Lord was 
graciously pleased to look upon me with compassion, and 
again ofifered to make me a pillar in his house ; and I felt 
a renewed concern to appear in public for his name, and 
in the cause of Truth. 

In the year 1755, being in company with Comfort 
Hoag* and her companion, from New England, then on 

* Comfort Hoag (afterwards Comfort Collins) was a lively 
minister of the go?pel, from the Colony of Massachusetts. She 
travelled extensively on this Continent, and left many seals of 
her ministry in places where she had been called to labor. She 
was living in 1815, at the advanced age of 07ie hundred aiid five 
years. Althouo:h her natural faculties were then much impaired, 
yet the happy effects of a religious life shone forth conspicuously 
through all the weakness and decay of extreme old age. A 
Friend, who visited her in the aforesaid year, says, "a peculiar 
innocence, calmness and quietude appeared in her countenance 
and manner of expression, manifesting that the spiritnal life 
was unimpaired by the decay of the natural faculties and 
powers.'' 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 67 

a religious visit to Friends in this part of tlie country, I 
attended a meeting with them, in which I felt a concern 
to speak to the assembly, but, as usual, evaded it. After 
meeting Comfort said to me, '^ David, why didst thou 
not preach to day V^ I smiled at the query, seeming to 
wonder that she should ask such a question, and endea- 
vored to appear innocent and ignorant of any concern of 
that kind. iVs she knew nothing of me but what she 
had felt, (having never before seen or heard of me,) she 
said no more. On the following day a similar concern 
came upon me, and I evaded it as before. After meet- 
ing. Comfort again said to me, '^ David, why didst thou 
not preach to-day V I endeavored to pass it by as I did 
before; but she said it was not worth while to evade it, 
for she was assured that I ought to have preached that 
day, and that I had almost spoiled her meeting by re- 
fraining, which had hindered her service. When I 
found I could not conceal my faults, I confessed the 
whole, and told her I had been for more than twenty 
years in that practice ; and then gave her a history of 
my life from the beginning down to that day. She ad- 
mired that divine kindness was yet manifested toward 
me in such manner, seeing I had so long rebelled against 
it, and then gave me suitable caution and advice. 

The following day, being at meeting, I again felt a 
concern to speak to the people, but endeavored to evade 
it. A man of some note was sitting before me, which in- 
creased my reluctance to speak. I supposed he would 
not be present at the next meeting, and then I would 
obey the call of the Lord to that service. Thus I spent 
the greater part of an hour. At length my divine Master, 
the great Master Builder, thus addressed me, ^^ Why 
dost thou still delay, desiring to be excused until a more 
convenient season ? There never will be a better time 
than this. I have waited on thee above twenty years ; 
I have clearly made known to thee my will, so that all 
occasion of doubt has been removed ; yet thou hast re- 
fused to submit until thy day is far spent ; and if thou 



68 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

dost not speedily comply witli my commands, it will be 
too late ; thy opportunity will be lost/' I then clearly 
saw that if I were forsaken, and left to myself, the con- 
sequence would be death and darkness forever ! At the 
sight of the horrible pit that yawned for me, if I con- 
tinued in disobedience, my body trembled like an aspen 
leaf, and my soul was humbled within me ! Then I said, 
'' Lord ! here am I ; make of me what thou wouldst have 
me to be ; leave me not in displeasure, I beseech thee/' 
All my power to resist was then suspended ; I forgot the 
great man that had been in my way ; and was raised on 
my feet, I hardly knew how, and expressed in a clear 
and distinct manner what was on my mind. When I 
had taken my seat Comfort Hoag rose, and had an open, 
favorable opportunity to speak to the assembly. After 
meeting she told me that, during the time we had sat in 
silence, her whole concern was on my account ; that her 
anxiety for my deliverance from that bondage was such, 
that she was willing to offer up her natural life to the 
Lord, if it might be a means to bring me forth in the 
ministry ; and that on making the offering I rose to 
speak. On which her anxiety for me was removed, and 
her mind filled with concern for the people present. 

At that time I was made a real Quaker, and was not 
ashamed to be seen trembling before the Lord. Under 
a sense of so great and merciful a deliverance, I saw and 
felt ample cause for it. It was with me as with Israel 
of old, when the Lord caused their captivity to return, 
saying he would build them as at the first, and they 
should fear and tremble for all his goodness, and for all 
the prosperity he would procure for them. My soul re- 
joiced in the Lord, and I magnified his excellent name, 
who is worthy of all honor, glory and renown forever. 

It appeared to me wonderful, that I should thus be 
lifted out of this horrible pit of my own digging ; and I 
was so absorbed in the love and mercy of my heavenly 
Benefactor, that I was filled with thankfulness and praise, 
attended with a desire that, in future, I might diligently 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID EERRIS. 69 

watch and wait for the pointing of his holy finger to 
every service he might be pleased to allot me, that so no 
opportunity might be lost of manifesting my gratitude 
by obedience to his will. My feelings were like those 
of a prisoner who had been long in bonds and was set at 
liberty. 

This appearance in the public ministry was in the year 
1755, and in the forty-eighth year of my age. After 
which it was never so great a cross to speak in meetings 
as it had been before. At many times, during my long 
silence, I had a sight that, if I were obedient to my duty, 
I might be made a useful member of the church, and as 
a pillar in God's house ; but having so long rebelled, I 
now had no reason to expect that I should be so useful 
as I might have been, had I rendered early obedience 
to the heavenly call. However, it appeared necessary, 
if little were committed to my care, to be faithful in that 
little. Sometimes I had a hope of being useful to my 
fellow creatures ] at other times I was left to myself, and 
humbled under a sense of my own inability to do any 
thing to the honor of God, or the help of others. 

In the year 1758, I was received into the meeting of 
ministers and elders ; and soon after obtained a certi- 
ficate to visit some parts of York Government, and a 
part of Connecticut. A companion was provided for me ] 
and we left home on the 24th of the Third month, 
1758. We visited about eighty meetings, chiefly 
amongst those of other societies, to our own satisfaction ; 
and, apparently so, to the people generally ; who sat in 
their meetings admirably quiet ; gave great attention to 
what was said ; and were much affected. They were 
kind and affectionate ; and seemed unwilling to part with 
us. I was four months and five days from home ; rode 
about one thousand miles; and returned in peace, and 
thankfulness of heart to the God and Father of all our 
mercies. 

For some years after this journey, I seldom appeared 
in the ministry. My friends, as well as myself, were in- 



70 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

clined to believe that if ever I had a gift for that ser- 
vice, it was taken from me. I was reduced very low; 
and great distress attended my mind. I was often ready 
to say, ^^ Is God's mercy quite gone ? Will he be favor- 
able no more V^ I went mourning on my way, and had 
little comfort in my life. In the night I wished for day ; 
and in the day I wished for night. None can conceive 
with what horror and anxiety I was attended ; unless 
they have been tried with similar desertion. The cause 
of my being so tried, I did not then see ; bat after I was 
in some measure mercifully restored, I believed it was 
to humble me ; that I might be brought to a more per- 
fect and entire dependence upon the divine gift; that 
so nothing of self should be present in my ministry. 

After it pleased the Lord to revisit my soul with the 
light of life, I felt a concern to arise, and increase, for 
the welfare of my fellow-creatures. I saw that the pro- 
fessors of Christianity were mostly at ease ; and that 
many under our name were contented with a mere pro- 
fession of the Truth ; and I felt a desire that the care- 
less and negligent might be awakened to a perception of 
their dangerous situation. 

In the year 1771, Samuel Neale, of Ireland, being on 
a religious visit to Friends in America, came to my 
house, on his way to Maryland. Having no companion, 
I offered to bear him company. He accepted my offer, 
and we set out in the Fifth month, and spent about a 
month in visiting the meetings of Friends, as far as 
West River ; those on the Eastern-Shore of Maryland ; 
and those between Lewistown and Wilmington. After 
which we rested a few days, at my house. Samuel in- 
tended to visit the meeting of Friends in New Jersey, 
and no better companion offering, I accompanied him in 
that journey also. From Wilmington we went to Sa- 
lem ; and after visiting all the meetings thereabouts, we 
crossed the country to Cape May ; and visited those of 
Great and Little Egg Harbor, Shrewsbury, and other 
parts of New Jersey, spending between six and seven 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 71 

weeks, to our mutual satisfaction. We parted at a meet- 
ing called Solomon's 3 Samuel going to Philadelphia, 
and I returning home ; where I found my family in 
health. 

Soon after my return, Samuel wrote to me, desiring I 
would prepare for a journey to New England. It was 
very pleasant to me, to find he had a concern to visit 
my native country ; for he had often said he saw no pro- 
bability of making such a visit. I felt willing to go 
with him, with the approbation of my friends at home ] 
of which I soon received their certificate ] and made 
ready for the journey. I left home on the 19th of the 
Ninth month, 1771 ; and went to our Yearly Meeting 
at Philadelphia ; which proved to me a good, comforta- 
ble meeting ; as I believe it did to many others. Some 
friends, whom I highly esteemed, informed me that they 
were pleased with my intention to accompany Samuel 
Neale ; which afforded me some encouragement ; for I 
was in a low state of mind ; feeling a great poverty of 
spirit. I was apprehensive that Friends would prefer a 
better companion for him ; and might advise me to re- 
turn home ; but Samuel seemed well pleased to find me 
prepared for the journey. 

After the Yearly Meeting had concluded, we set out 
for New England on the 27th of the Ninth month ; and 
proceeded directly to Rah way ; where we had a meeting: 
on First day ; and, in the afternoon, rode to New York. 
Here we had a meeting on Second day; and rested the 
day following. On Fourth day we attended the monthfy 
meeting at Newtown, on Long Island. After which wc 
returned to New York. Thence we rode to Shappaqua ; 
and so on, to Ammawalk, Peachpond, Oblong, Shear- 
man's meeting, Oswego, Jonathan Hoag's, Over-the- 
Creek, Nine Partners, and Salisbury; and had meetings 
at all those places to pretty good satisfaction. From 
Salisbury we rode about one hundred miles eastward to 
Leicester; had a meeting there ; and lodged at the widow 
Earle's; another at Boston, and one at Salem. Af- 



72 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. , 

terwards we proceeded in a nortli-easterly direction ; at- 
tended all tlie meetings of Friends, as far as CascoBay; 
and one on the other side of tlie Bay. We crossed the 
Bay on the 27th of Tenth month ; and returned the 
following day. On our return, the wind was violent ; 
and we appeared to be in imminent danger. There were 
fourteen persons in the boat, which was a small one, and 
the Bay eighteen miles wide ; but, through divine mer- 
cy, we landed safely at Falmouth, and went that night 
to Benjamin Winslow's. From thence we travelled 
homeward, fifty-five miles, to Berwick; and attended 
the quarterly meeting at Dover. Thence we went to 
Kittery, Barrington, Lee, Epping, and to a newly set- 
tled place, fifty miles west of Hampton, called Ware ; 
and had meetings at all those places. From Ware we 
returned to Hampton ; and thence proceeded to Salem, 
Lynn, and Boston; and so, onward, to Nantucket; vi- 
siting meetings on the way. Afterwards we visited Bhode 
Island ; and thence travelled through New England, and 
York Government ; and arrived in Philadelphia after an 
absence of four months and a half. Having travelled, 
by land and water, about seventeen hundred miles ; gene- 
rally to good satisfaction. I returned home in peace, 
and found my family well. 

After this journey, Samuel Neale and I were con- 
cerned to visit some parts of York Government ; and 
some within the bounds of Connecticut. We set out 
on the 27th of the Fourth month, 1772, and went to 
the quarterly meeting at Oblong. We spent about six 
weeks in visiting the meetings of Friends ; and holding 
some amongst those of other societies. On our return 
to Philadelphia, I parted with my beloved friend, Samuel 
Neale ; with whom I had travelled, altogether, about 
nine months. 

On the 16th of the Tenth month, 1772, having ob- 
tained a certificate of the concurrence of my friends, I 
set out in order to visit the southern provinces ; in com- 
pany with my friend, Robert Valentine ; whom I met 
at YorktowH; in Pennsylvania. On the afternoon of the 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 73 

day of our meeting, we rode to Newberry; where we 
attended a meeting the following day ; which was not 
very satisfactory. I was very much depressed under the 
weight of the undertaking ; which appeared a very 
great one, for two such poor striplings. For though we 
were not young in years, yet we were so in experience 
as ministers. Hitherto, I had generally travelled with 
old, experienced ministers ; upon whom I could lean ; as 
I was too apt to do. But now, under the prospect that 
the work would devolve with greater weight on me, I 
was much cast down ; although Robert was a valuable 
friend, and lively minister. I mentioned to him my dis- 
couragement; but he spoke cheerfully; saying he believed 
we should get well along, if our Master would go with 
us ; which he hoped would be the case. On the follow- 
ing day we had a large meeting at Warrington; and our 
Master was with us, indeed ; and favored us with his 
life-giving presence. It was an affecting time. The 
power of Truth prevailed over all. Life was in domi- 
nion. Divine Love filled many hearts ; and we parted 
with the people in much love and tenderness. This com- 
fortable meeting relieved me of my fears, and renewed 
my faith. We now went on pretty cheerfully ; uuder 
the hope that we should be favored, from time to time, 
with fresh supplies of divine help, through our journey. 
We visited meetings on our way to Fairfax ; were at 
their monthly meeting, and several others, in that neigh- 
borhood. At that time our valuable friend, John Church- 
man, was at Fairfax : and we attended several meetings 
with him. Robert and I had an evening meeting at 
Louisburg. It was held in their court-house, and many 
of their great people were present. It proved a very 
trying time to us both ; such as I had never known be- 
fore. But, after we had been sufficiently tried and mor- 
tified, we were favored with a good, comfortable oppor- 
tunity to relieve ourselves ; for which I was truly and 
humbly thankful. John Churchman remained at Amoft 
Janney's, in Fairfax, until we had visited all the meet-^ 

7 



74 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

ings in tliat neigliborliood. After finisliing this service, 
we returned to Amos Janney^s ; and from thence set out 
on our journey southward. At parting with John Church- 
man, he told us he had no objections to our going for- 
ward ; which afforded us great encouragement. I was 
inclined to believe he would advise me to return home ; 
and not attempt further to execute my enterprise. I con- 
cluded he would perceive our weakness, and be honest to 
us in the cause of Truth ; and I felt willing to re- 
ceive such advice, not desiring to proceed without di- 
vine approbation. But, notwithstanding we had been 
encouraged to proceed, I went on in great fear; having 
a daily sense of of my own insufficiency for so great and 
important a service. AVe, however, ventured to proceed 
to Hopewell; and attended all the meetings in that 
neighborhood; then went to Smith's Creek; thence to 
Douglass, Camp Creek, Fork Creek, and Genito ; to John 
Johnson's, in Amelia county ; to South River, a branch 
of James' Kiver ; to Stanton ; and so on, to North Caro- 
lina. We had meetings at all these, and some other 
places. In New-Garden settlement we were at one Quar- 
terly meeting, three Monthly meetings, and eighteen pub- 
lic meetings. Though we had our trials and baptizing 
seasons, and felt need of daily assistance, the great Shep- 
herd of Israel was near us and favored us with help. 
We felt great love for the people ; and I hope our visit 
may be useful to some of them. 

Soon after we entered New-Garden settlement, and 
before we had a meeting there, my companion heard a 
report that a letter had come for me ; and that it con- 
tained bad news. It was said the letter had passed us ; 
and when, or where, it would be found, was very uncer- 
tain. My companion consulted with some friends on 
the subject ; and they thought it would be best to con- 
ceal the report from me ; as we were just going to the 
first meeting in the settlement. However, as we rode 
along, he thought it right to inform me of the rumor ; 
.and told me it was reported I was sent for home. On 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 75 

hearing it I was filled with concern ; the enemy was busy ; 
and I was weak ; yet I continued my journey ; although 
I had poor meetings. I supposed my friends were un- 
easy with my proceedings ; and had sent to request me 
to return. The report concerning the letter spread 
among the people : and it was currently asserted that 
Wilmington was burnt to ashes ; that all my property 
was consumed } and that I was sent for on that account. 
These were heavy tidings ; and all true, for anything I 
knew to the contrary. After several days of great anx- 
iety, a hope arose in my mind that it was not so bad as 
was reported ; for, as I turned my mind towards home, 
it seemed to me, that my dwelling house at least was safe. 
I had now been about ten days under this trouble, when 
we lodged at the house of a Friend whose wife was a 
sensible, religious woman, well acquainted with the 
snares of the enemy ; and she, hearing me say some- 
thing of returning, as I could hear nothing further of 
the letter, told me she believed there was little or no 
truth in the reports ; but that it was the work of Satan 
and his emissaries, to hinder my service, and send me 
home. This was a seasonable caution. 

When we had visited nearly all the meetings in that 
neighborhood, and as we designed to proceed to Bush 
Kiver, in South Carolina, I thought it best to use every 
means to find the letter, before we went further. I there- 
fore hired a young man to go back in pursuit of the let- 
ter as far as Hillsborough, sixty miles, if necessary. Af- 
ter proceeding about thirty miles in the search, he found 
it ; and brought it to me, just as we were going into a 
meeting. I opened and read the letter, much to my 
comfort. There was no account of fire, or any other 
unpleasant occurrence in it. Thus all my uneasiness 
was removed. 

This storm being happily blown over, we set out for 
South Carolina. Zachariah Dicks, John Carter, Wil- 
liam Lindley, and John Unthank, accompanied us to 
Bush Biver, two hundred miles ; which we travelled in 



76 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

five days. Two of the Friends remained at Busli River, 
wtile we went to Georgia. We went afterwards to Wa- 
teree and Pedee. At the latter place we had two meet- 
ings with Friends. There we parted with the Friends 
before mentioned. They had been our pleasant and af- 
fectionate companions for about a month. After our 
separation, Robert and I felt lonesome ; having to ride 
one hundred and twenty miles before we could come 
amongst Friends again. During two days we had guides 
to conduct us ; then, hoping we should be able to find the 
way without their assistance, we advised them to return 
home. We arrived at Richard Cox's, atNeuse River, in 
safety; and after having two satisfactory meetings there, 
we rode fifteen miles, to Great Contentney; where we 
had a meeting. From thence, we went to Henry Home's 
at Tar River, and had a meeting at his house; which 
was a poor, low time. The professors there seemed in- 
clined to the Baptists. From Tar River we went to Rich 
Square ; and, after attending their meeting, we set out 
towards the old settlement, in North Carolina. As we 
proceeded towards the lower settlements, in Carolina and 
Virginia, among a wise people, as I supposed, fat and 
full, possessing great numbers of slaves, I was very pen- 
sive; and so much depressed, that I would gladly have 
passed them by, and returned immediately home. But 
I saw no way for me, but to look to my divine Instructor; 
and depend on Him who had hitherto been our suflScient 
helper, in every strait and difficulty. After a time of 
trial, I was favored with a degree of fortitude and resig- 
nation. I went down among them in fear; but we 
found some tender, loving, well-inclined people ; and 
were favored with heavenly help, and enabled to proceed, 
I hope, to the honor of Truth, and advantage of the 
people; for many of whom we felt a tender regard, and 
parted with them in much love. 

Although they were generally in the practice of keep- 
ing slaves, yet they had begun to see the error of it, and 
were desirous to be relieved of the burden, but saw no 



MEMOIRS or DAVID FERRIS. 77 

way to effect it, to the satisfaction of themselves and their 
slaves, because of the cruel laws in force in these colo- 
nies ; by which, if a man set his slaves free, they would 
be liable to be seized and sold to the highest bidder; 
which appeared grievous, both to themselves and their 
owners. 

We visited nearly all the meetings in the lower parts 
of North Carolina and Virginia, to our satisfaction. We 
then passed into Maryland, and visited the meetings on 
the western shore as far as Baltimore ; from thence we 
came directly home. I found my family and temporal 
concerns as well as usual ; and had great peace and satis- 
faction of mind, under a thankful sense of the many 
favors we had received, and that divine assistance had 
been afforded in every trying season. We had been en- 
gaged in this visit just five months ; had travelled nearly 
three thousand miles; had attended one hundred and 
five public meetings ; and arrived at home on the 16th 
of the Third month, 1773. 

After my return from this journey I did not travel far 
from home until the Fifth month, 1776 ; when, in com- 
pany with John Perry, I left home to pay a religious 
visit to Friends in New England. 

5th month 19th, we attended Haverford meeting, and 
next day reached Isaac Bolton's, in Bucks County; 
thence to Rahway, where we met with Bebecca Wright 
and Phebe Yarnall, who were engaged on a similar visit 
to New England; and after being at Rahway Meeting, 
we went on together to New York. 24th, we were at a 
meeting at Flushing, on Long Island. After . having 
several other meetings on the island, we returned to the 
main land, and had a meeting at Westchester on the 
28th ; thence to Mamaroneck and Purchase, where the 
negro masters were closely dealt with in the public service 
of the meeting. 

After having a meeting at North Castle, we went on 
to Richard Titus's, at Greenwich, forty miles eastward 

7^ 



78 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

of New York, in Connecticut government, and liad a 
meeting at Jesse Hallock's, who married Edward Bur- 
ling^ s daughter. Charles Brock having accompanied us 
from Rahway, we were now joined by John Alsop, who 
came to pilot us, and we all set forward on the 3d of 6th 
month through Connecticut towards Rhode Island. Going 
by way of New Milford, New Haven, Guilford, Seabrook, 
and New London to Stonington, on the 6th we arrived 
at John Collins's and attended Hopkinton meeting, which 
was held in silence, except that John Perry said a few 
words near the close. 

*Jth. We had an appointed meeting at Hopkinton, 
which was a more open time ; next day we had a hard, 
laborious meeting at Westerly ; but something was com- 
municated to the people near the close for their help, if 
they would accept it. Thence, with Thomas Wilbur for 
a guide, we went to Jonathan Hoxie's and lodged, and 
next day attended Richmond meeting, which was a good, 
comfortable time. After a satisfactory sitting at John 
Knowles's, where we dined, we went on to South Kings- 
ton, or the Upper Meeting, which we attended on the 
10th of 6th month ) and next day were at the Lower 
Meeting, where, after long and close exercise, we had a 
favored opportunity together. After dining at Thomas 
Hazard's, we crossed the two ferries and arrived at New- 
port on Rhode Island. The rest of our company remain- 
ing there, John Perry and I rode out of town to James 
Mitchell's, where we were kindly received and enter- 
tained. 

12tli, We attended the Meeting for Suflferings, held 
at Portsmouth, and were at several sittings with them to 
satisfaction. We attended all the sittings of the Yearly 
Meeting to edification and comfort. The meeting closed 
on the 18th, and next day we had an appointed meeting 
at Seaconnet. 20th, we attended Accoaksett Monthly 
Meeting, and the day following had a large meeting held 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 79 

in an orchard, for it was supposed that one-half the 
people could not have got into the meeting house ; but 
it was mostly a silent opportunity. We then rode six 
miles to Accushnet, and attended meeting there on First 
day; thence to New Bedford, and lodged at Joseph 
Kotch's. On Second day we were at Aponegansett 
Monthly Meeting, which was very large, and a favored 
season. Returning again to Joseph Rotch's, we next 
day at sunrise went on board S. Starbuck^s sloop, bound 
for Nantucket ; and in eight hours cast anchor without 
the bar, but got in near night and lodged at William 
Rotch^s. 

We spent several days on Nantucket visiting aged and 
sick people, and had several very large public meetings, 
also were at their Monthly Meeting. On the 2d of 7th 
month we again embarked with Samuel Starbuck, and in 
five hours landed at Wood's Hole, where we lodged at 
the widow Wing's. Next day had a satisfactory meeting 
at Falmouth ; and the day following, after dining at Ben- 
jamin Swift's, we rode 16 miles to Sandwich, and lodged 
at Joshua Wing's. After attending the several sittings 
of the Quarterly Meeting held at Sandwich, Phebe Yar- 
nall and Rebecca AYright left us and went on toward 
Cape Cod. We had travelled together in much unity 
and harmony for about seven weeks, and now parted in 
the same, their prospect leading towards Boston and 
eastward. John Perry and I staid at meeting at Sand- 
wich on First day, and next day had a meeting at 
Rochester in the mornino:, also one in the afternoon at 
Lons: Plain. 

c 

Ninth of Seventh month we rode through Taunton to 
Moses Brown's, near Providence, and next day went to 
the Meeting for Sufferings held at Smithfield. At this 
meeting the sorrowful affair of T. Davis was discoursed 
of. We then attended the Quarterly Meeting held at 
Smithfield, and returned to Moses Brown's. On First 
day we were at the morning and afternoon meetings 



80 MEMOIRS OP DAVID FERRIS. 

held at Providence. On tlie 14th we attended a poor 
meeting at Greenwich, and lodged at Benjamin Cong- 
don's; next day, had a very satisfactory meeting at Ne- 
shanticut, in which the seasoning virtue of Truth was 
felt to our mutual edification. We had the company of 
Moses Brown, his wife's mother, and sister Mary Olney, 
Job Scott, Samuel Eodman and divers other Friends, 
who dined with us at the house of Elisha Harris, a man 
partly convinced of Friends' principles. Here we had a 
blessed opportunity together — a time of the renewing of 
life, in which the Divine Master was with us, strength- 
ening and uniting us in the love of the gospel. 

On the 17th, we attended old Smithfield Preparative 
Meeting, and next day that at Wainsokett, which was 
comfortable. Thence we went to Moses Farnum's, at 
Uxbridge, and were at a meeting there the day following. 
On First day, the 21st, we attended the meeting at Scitu- 
ate, which was very full, being composed of people of 
divers professions ; but ability was given to say what 
seemed necessary for the occasion. At this place John 
Perry was poorly, and Moses Farnum and Moses Brown 
stayed with us and lodged at Gideon Harris's. Next 
morning these Friends left us, and in the afternoon we 
set out for Hartford in Connecticut. Passing through 
Coventry, Plainfield and Windham, we reached Hartford, 
and thence rode on through Farmington, Waterbury and 
Woodbury to my brother-in-law Dobson Wheeler's, at 
New Milford, where we attended their Fifth day meeting, 
and then went to see sister Sarah Noble. We also visited 
Joseph Ferris's family, and on First day attended Friends 
meeting on the Plain, which was but a poor and low 
time. In the afternoon we had a meeting at the sepa- 
rate meeting house in New Milford, the Baptist and 
Presbyterian teachers being present ; but they were too 
full of expectation of words, of which I had not much 
for them, and John Perry thought no fish were caught. 
29th, we rode to the Oblong, and next day had a good 



MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 81 

meeting at the Nine Partners. We then went to my 
brother Benjamin Ferris' s, at Oblong, and attended 
meeting there. 

On the 1st of the 8th month, in company with Wil- 
liam Russel and Paul Osborn, we set out and went for- 
ward toward the North River, which we crossed at New 
Windsor, being upwards of two miles wide, and lodged 
at a tavern about forty-three miles from Oblong. Next 
day we reached Benjamin Schooley's, at Pauline Hill, 
and the day following got to the Great Meadows, and 
attended Hardwich meeting on the 4th, which was to 
pretty good satisfaction. Thence we went on through 
Kingwood, and lodged at Samuel Eastburn's, in Bucks 
County, Pennsylvania, and thence home, from which I 
had been absent eleven weeks. We had travelled, by 
land and water, eight hundred miles. I was favored 
with peace of mind, and found my family well. 

1779, 5 mo. 21. lam now drawing towards the conclusion 
of life, being, this day, seventy-two years of age. For the 
encouragement of others, I will now briefly recapitulate 
some of the kind dealings of Providence towards me. 
The God of my life, my Maker and Preserv^er, has been 
propitious to me, from youth to old age. The fear of 
the Lord, which preserves from evil, was placed in my 
heart when I was but eight years old, so that I was afraid 
to offend him. In the twelfth year of my age I was 
mercifully visited, and called out of the vanities of the 
world ; at which time I received a promise, that if I 
sought first the kingdom of God, all other necessary 
things should be added; and I have found the promise 
true, for I never have wanted any of the good things of 
this life. I have been blessed with sufficient for myself 
and friends, and something to spare to the poor. And 
I esteem it a great favor that I received a disposition to 
communicate to those who stood in need. If all men 
would " seek first the kingdom of heaven and the righte- 



82 MEMOIRS OF DAVID FERRIS. 

ousness thereof/^ and carefully attend to tlie leadings of 
the Holy Spirit, with which all might be favored, I be- 
lieve they would be blest with a sufficient portion of 
wealth. 0, that mankind were wise ! and would early 
seek that treasure which cometh from above, and which 
neither moth nor rust can corrupt, nor thieves break 
through and steal ! And may we all beware of loving 
the world, and living at ease in the enjoyment of its good 
and pleasant things ! Even those who have been favored 
with remarkable divine visitations, and have been put 
in possession of ^^ the upper and the nether springs,^' 
have great need to be on their guard. When we enjoy 
health and plenty, and all things seem pleasant around 
us, we are prone to forget the Lord, and neglect those 
'' things that belong to our peace.'' This I know by 
sorrowful experience. In this way I was brought into a 
long, dark and mournful situation, and kept from yielding 
obedience to my own duty respecting the ministry. Al- 
though I had been called out of the world and uncom- 
monly favored, as before related ; although I had forsaken 
the vanities and flesh-pleasing gratifications in which I 
had delighted ; although I had left the college in a way 
so mortifying • had given up all to death, and freely borne 
the cross of being esteemed a fool by the world ; after- 
wards joining with the despised Quakers, adopting their 
language, dress and behaviour ; all which I could not 
have done without divine assistance ; yet, after all this, 
I was so forgetful and ungrateful to my heavenly Bene- 
factor, that it is a wonder I was ever restored. And I 
have no doubt that thousands, through negligence, even 
after they have been called out of the world, and have 
run well for a season, have been finally lost; sw^imming 
away in the riches and pleasures of this transitory state. 
This I have written for a warning to others. 

In the early part of the winter, after my return from 
New England in 1776, I was reduced to a poor state of 
health, and so continue. I believe I have not lately 
been ever clear of a slow fever; but have generally been 



MEMOIRS OP DAVID FERRIS. 83 

able to go to our religious meetings at and near home , 
sometimes to Philadelphia, and once into Maryland, the 
lower counties on Delaware, &c. &c. 

DAVID FERRIS. 
Wilmington^ bth month ^ 1779. 



APPENDIX. 

The following letters, ontlie siibject of Slavery, give a 
lively view of tlie concern under whicli our predecessors 
labored in tlie cause of African Emancipation. With 
them it was a religious concern. We of the present gene- 
ration can have no adequate idea of the trials which our 
Friends of that day endured, in the prosecution of the 
subject. To many of them it involved the most serious 
consequences, even the exchange of affluence and ease 
for poverty and hardship. Nothing but religious concern 
could have prepared them to make such a sacrifice ; no- 
thing but a religious ground could have supported them 
under it. To them the call was extended, as it was to 
the young man mentioned by the Evangelist — '^ Go sell 
all that thou hast and give to the poor, and thou shalt 
have treasure in heaven. ^^ In obedience to that call, and 
with faith in the providence of Grod, they went up to the 
altar, and laid upon it " even all their living.^' No po- 
litical or selfish motives stained the purity of their offer 
ing; no love of popularity or of personal distinction 
swayed their conduct. Love to God and man was their 
spring of action, and peace of mind their ultimate object. 

The letters on the subject of slavery which immediately 
follow, are inserted with the view to illustrate the fore- 

8 



86 APPENDIX. 

going remarks, and as affording a rare specimen of that 
affectionate plain dealing whicli tlien marked tlie charac- 
ter of Friends, and wliich was soon followed by sucli 
abundance of fruit. David Ferris was a contemporary 
and fellow-laborer with John Woolman and Anthony 
Benezet, being intimately acquainted with both. Like 
them, he made universal benevolence the ground and 
spring of his action ; like them he sought Divine direc- 
tion, and was careful to follow it. Under the holy in- 
fluence of love, and from the pure impulse of religious 
concern, he used to go forth alone to visit those who 
held slaves ; travelling from neighborhood to neighbor- 
hood, and from house to house; and, while earnestly 
pleading the cause of the colored man, was as earnestly 
concerned for the freedom and salvation of his master. 
Great was the work, and wonderful the result of their 
labors. Many who saw ih.Q first action of the Society of 
Friends in the cause of African Emancipation, lived to 
see that Society wholly disenthralled, standing before the 
world without a slave within its borders. 

The success of their undertakinsc furnishes a strikins: 
instance of the great importance of adopting right means 
for the accomplishment of a right end. 

The letters on other subjects are added as further il- 
lustrating the religious character of David Ferris, and 
exhibiting his concern for the promotion of Truth and 
Righteousness. The weighty counsel and sound Gospel 
truths they contain, are as appropriate and instructive at 
the present day, as they were at t^^e time when they were 
written. 



APPENDIX. 87 



Wilmington, j"" 20tli 9 mo.;, 1767. 
Dear Friends^ Samuel Field and Wife: — 

I have been acquainted with you for many years, and 
have always entertained for you a sincere regard and 
esteem, with desires for your present and eternal welfare. 
I have remembered a charge given to Israel of old — 
^^ Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thy heart, but shalt 
in any wise rebuke him, and not suffer sin upon him.'* 
Whether you continue to hold slaves or not I am not 
informed, but, if you are yet in that practice, I wish you 
seriously to consider the law that was given forth under 
the present dispensation, on this wise, '^ Whatsoever ye 
would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.*' 

Now, I wish you to compare your own conduct with 
this law. Would you be willing your own children 
should be taken into some remote land, and they and 
their posterity brought up in ignorance, and held in per- 
petual slavery ? Or would you like that one of your 
neighbors, who had the power, should act so by your own 
family, and refuse to listen to any entreaty for your re- 
lease ? If any neighbor should treat you and your chil- 
dren in this manner, what sort of a Christian would you 
judge him to be ? 

The law I have recited was enacted under the Chris- 
tian dispensation, and ought to be the rule of our con- 
duct. It relates to all men, of all nations, colors and 
languages, of every rank and degree, to an Ethiopian or 
African equally with an Englishman or American. The 
poor Blacks have the same right to freedom that we have, 
and Truth and Righteousness require that it should be 
granted to them. Now, if justice demands that they 
should be treated like other men, where does the slave- 
holder stand, and what is his condition ? Is he not 
robbing his neighbor and oppressing the poor, who have 
none to help them nor plead their cause ? It is high 
time for slaveholders to look about them, and speedily 



88 APPENDIX. 

to devise measures to extricate themselves from the ini- 
quity of their conduct, before it be too late. 

Now, my dear friends, your time, as well as my own, 
is far spent, and I much desire that your conduct in re- 
lation to slave-keeping, as well as to all other concerns, 
may be such, that you may lay down your heads in peace 
at last. 

I am satisfied, that if you had duly considered this 
subject, and laid aside all consideration of worldly inte- 
rests, you would long ago have released the captive from 
his bonds, and have let the oppressed go free ; for I be- 
lieve it is as honest, and as consistent with Christianity, 
to take a man^s money or goods for nothing, as it is to 
take his labor. Besides, there is something worse in the 
iniquity of slavery than taking his labor without com- 
pensation. The poor slave is not only defrauded of his 
liberty ; he is forced to come and go at the command of 
another, when many times, from want of health, he is 
not fit to perform the service required. Yet they are 
obliged to obey, and do often obey under great suff"ering 
and hardship. Now, this is grievous oppression, of 
which every slave-keeper is guilty more or less. 

The Scriptures declare that '^ he who oppresseth the 
poor reproacheth his Maker,'^ and among all mankind 
I know of none who are j9oore?', or more oppressed^ than 
the poor Africans, under the professors of Christianity. 
Besides, they are generally brought up in ignorance. 
As an unrighteous covetousness is the motive for hold- 
ing them as slaves, so it is for keeping them in ignorance. 
Learning cannot be acquired without an expense of time 
and money. Some masters and mistresses are so void of 
Christianity (although they profess it) that they are not 
ashamed to use this as an argument to defend their con- 
duct, adding, as a further justification, that learning will 
not make them better but worse slaves I Others, who 
do not venture so to express themselves, follow the same 
course and for the same reasons. 

Very few of the masters are concerned to teach or in- 



APPENDIX. 89 

stmct their slaves in the principles of the Christian re- 
ligion — to bring them up in the right way, or to take 
them diligently to places of worship. To the shame of 
their profession^ it may be said, they manifest little care 
on the subject. Indeed, it could hardly be expected 
that those whose practice is so repugnant to Christianity, 
should incline to teach their slaves its principles ; be- 
cause, if it were honestly done, the slave would be taught 
to condemn the master, and to upbraid him with acting 
inconsistently with his own principles. If slaveholders 
were to teach their negroes to read and write, to give 
them good instruction, to use all reasonable means to 
promote their attendance at meetings for divine worship, 
they might indeed have less to answer for than they 
have who wholly neglect these duties. But all this would 
not relieve the oppressed, nor restore them to their just 
rights. Their owners would still be their oppressors ; 
the oppressed would still cry to heaven, and heaven 
would still hear their cries. My desire for you is, that 
you may so act as to stand clear, and be acquitted in 
the day of account. 

I pity the slaveholder far more than I pity his slaves, 
because I believe him to be in a worse condition than 
they. I should choose rather to he the slave than his mas- 
ter or Tnistress.^ 

If you yet hold any slaves, I do entreat you to set 
them free immediately. Teach your children by example 
to shun the gain of oppression. Do not transfer your 
negroes to your offspring, nor leave them so that your 

* This letter was written in the year 1767, eighteen years 
before Covjper wi^ote " The Task,'^ It is pleasing to see the 
generous and truly Christian sentiment contained in this para- 
graph, so elegantly expressed by the poet, after the lapse of so 
many years : 

a ; dear as freedom is, and, in my heart's 

Just estimation, prized above all price ; 

I had much rather he myself the slave. 

And wear the bonds, than fasten them on him»^' 

Cowper'sTask, Book 2d, line 33, &c. 

8* 



90 APPENDIX. 

cliildren shall expect any thing from them, or be laid 
under any temptation to become their oppressors. Set 
them all free notOy whilst it is in your power. Give them 
a full discharge in writing ] and by a bond secure to the 
minors their freedom, when they shall arrive at age. 
Let the manumissions be legally drawn and executed, 
so that neither you nor your children, nor any other 
person, may take them again into bondage. Let these 
instruments of writing be duly and safely recorded. 

Do not plead that your slaves are too old, or say they 
are drunken or thievish, and will not be able to get their 
living. All these things are nothing to you ! Do your 
duty, and then leave them to Providence. You have 
no more cause to be concerned about their future con- 
duct, than you have about the conduct of others. Only 
do your duty and you may trust for the rest. 

As to their age, if they were even seventy years old 
they ought to be liberated, and breathe a free air as long 
as they can breathe at all, and to be well cared for, and 
kindly treated and maintained. Those who have served 
thirty or forty years, ought not, by any means, to be sent 
away empty, but should be liberally furnished out of 
your stock. Israel of old was commanded, on liberating 
their hretJiren who had been bond-servants, that they 
should not let them go away empty ] '^ thou shalt furnish 
him liberally, out of that with which the Lord thy God 
hath blessed thee.^' In this gospel dispensation all man- 
kind are our hretliren, and ought to be treated as such. 

Suppose a man has served until he is 40 years old, 
that is 19 years more than is just; and his service has 
been well worth £12 per annum, amounting to ^228. 
Now, to turn such a one away and give -him nothing is 
unchristian, yea, it is dishonest ! It shows that we would 
7iot pay a just debt unless compelled hy the law. 

I have often thought of you in relation to this subject, 
with desires for your well doing, and felt as if it would 
be like ^* suffering sin upon my neighbor,^' if I should 
be silent. I have therefore given you some hints of my 



APPENDIX. 91 

mindj whlcli I desire may be well taken, as they are well 
meant. Do not make light of them, and laugh at my 
concern, as pitying my weakness. Slaveholding is in- 
justice, and will be found a heavy burden at last. 
From your friend and well wisher, 

David Ferris. 



Wilmington, y® 20th 9th mo., 1774. 

Esteemed Friend^ Robert Pleasants, — I have often 
been thoughtful of thee, since I was in ycur part of the 
country, desiring that thou mayest so steer thy course 
through time, as to come safely to the haven of eternal 
rest in the conclusion. 

There is one circumstance which has particularly 
engaged me in concern for thee, and that is the condition 
of the poor black people now by thee held in bondage. I 
fear that to hold them in a state of slavery, deprived of 
their natural right, may be a means of depriving thee of 
thy own freedom, and not only prevent thee from being 
so serviceable in thy day, as otherwise thou might be, 
but be a bar in the way of thy peace here, and hereafter. 
I believe that a further advance, on thy part, must be 
made, in order to make thee a free man, and enable thee 
to sing on the banks of deliverance. I apprehend thou 
art chargeable with several omissions which require 
attention. 

In the first place I conclude thy poor blacks have 
been generally brought up in ignorance ; neither taught 
to read or write — nor have had any proper instruction in 
the principles of the Christian religion. Abraham in- 
structed his household, and commanded them after him, 
that they might keep the way of the Lord, to do justice 
and judgment. This poor people being brought by force 
into a strange land, and kept in bondage, have no way 
to get learning, or to receive instruction from man, 
without the allowance or assistance of those w-ho hold 



92 APPENDIX. 

them as slaves. The negroes are rational creatures, and 
as accountable to their Maker, as white men and women 
are. Why then should they not have the same advan- 
tages of learning and instruction that we have? Why 
should not they be as carefully informed that there is a 
God, and that He is to be worshipped, feared and 
obeyed by all his rational family ? that we and they are 
all favored with ^^ a manifestation of his holy spirit to 
profit withaP7 And why should they not be pressed 
to a close attention, and obedience to its directions ? In- 
asmuch as we profess to believe that ^^God is a spirit/' 
and that the worship which is acceptable to him, must 
be performed '^ in Spirit and in truth^^ and may be 
performed in silently waiting upon him, why should not 
ihei/ be so instructed as well as our own children ? and 
why not (as well as they) be constantly taken to meet- 
ings while they are young, in order that they may not 
depart from so good a way, when they are old ? These 
things are worthy our serious consideration, and close 
examination, that those who take upon them the charge 
of bringing up numbers of their fellow-men, may see 
how far short they may be of a faithful discharge of duty 
towards them. I am sensible that negro-masters object 
to this, saying, that their colored children are not wil- 
ling to go to Friends' meeting ! But consider the reason 
of such unwillingness ! Is it not because they have not 
been brought up in the way they ought to walk in ? But 
whatever their objection may be, it ought not to be an 
excuse for the omission of a religious duty. 

In the next place, some are unjustly held in bondage 
for the term of life, others many years after they ought 
to be free : and so the poor are oppressed, and labor ex- 
torted from them by force, which is the height (5f injus- 
tice ! If negro-masters would weightily consider that 
precept of our Lord, which is short and easily understood, 
*' Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do 
ye even so to them,'' they would easily discover that 
they would not be willing^ either that they or their 



APPENDIX. 93 

children should be brought up in total ignorance, kept in 
bondage for life, obliged to labor all their days for no- 
thing but a poor, hard, coarse living ; with mean food, 
worse clothing, and lodging still worse ! and after all to 
die with the prospect of leaving their posterity to the 
children of their oppressors from generation to generation 
forever. 

Solomon says, ^^ he that oppresseth the poor to increase 
his riches, shall surely come to want;'' suppose he wholly 
alluded to outward want, I think it should be suiEcient 
to deter any one from such injustice : but that will not 
be the only want which shall overtake them that op- 
press the poor. 

Slave-keepers are extortioners^ to all intents and pur- 
poses ; and what must be the end of the extortioner ? I 
would ask, if it be possible that a man of understanding 
could bring himself to believe, that it is not oppression to 
deprive a man of his liberty, and force him to labor all his 
days, with rigor, for nothing ? Or are people at this 
day determined to disregard the sentence of the Almighty 
against extortioners^ which solemnly declares that '' no 
extortioner shall inherit the kingdom of God.'' If the 
usage generally extended to the negroes, be not '^ ex- 
tortion," I know not where to look for anything that 
deserves the name 1 

I cannot suppose, that at this time of the day I need 
use arguments to convince ihee of the evil of slave-keep- 
ing. Obedience is what I judge to be wanting; and it is 
sorrowful to think, that people should go on in the way 
they know to be wrong. I doubt not that thou hast 
seen the error of the practice, at many times ; and if thy 
sight is now clouded and darkened it is to be lamented; 
but if thy eyes are now open to see the subject in its 
true light, as a practice altogether inconsistent with the 
spirit of Christianity, I beseech thee not to dally, or put 
it off any longer. Do justice without delay. Don't hesi- 
tate about, the value of thy slaves, neither boggle at the 
law, saying, ^'if I set them free the public will take them, 



94 APPENDIX. 

anJ sell them into worse slavery, and it will be bard tbat 
the poor negroes should suffer by my act." I fully be- 
lieve if thou could see the danger of tbj present state, 
and could lay aside the influence of peaaniary intereMj 
so as to be fully resigned, and willing to part with all for 
the Truth's sake, a way would be made for thy escape 
and for the safety of the negroes also. If the Lord re- 
quires thee to set thy slaves free, obey him promptly, 
and leave the result to him, and peace shall be within thy 
borders, 

I am aware that there are many difficulties in thy way. 
Thy slaves are very numerous. Some are too old to labor, 
some in their prime, and some too young to work. Thou 
mayest and probably dost say, ^^What can I do with 
them ? how can I dispose of them better than by keeping 
them and using them kindly?'' 

Let us suppose that thou hast an hundred of them ; 
that twenty of them are old, and partly unfit to labor; 
thaty^r^^ of them are too young to earn their living, and 
forty of them in their prime for labor. Thou mayest set 
the old ones free, and obligate thyself and thy estate to 
maintain them well, and use them kindly the remainder 
of their days. Those in their prime, give to them a full 
discharge from all future service, and to those of them 
who have served thee after they were of age, pay them 
for that service honestly, and thereby put them into a way 
of getting their living. This will be just, and is un- 
doubtedly thy duty. Let the young ones be all manumit- 
ted; and put it out of thy own power, and the power of thy 
heirs, to take them back into bondage, after they are 
of age. And let them all be taught to read, and write, 
and understand arithmetic. " Train them up in the way 
they should go,'' keep th:m constantly to religious meet- 
ings, on the first and other days of the week, even as thou 
wouldst have thy own children dealt with; then, when 
they arrive at maturity, they will be prepared for free- 
dom ; and when all this is done, or rightly in the way to 
be accomplished, thou wilt be a free man. 



APPENDIX. 95 

As for thy past errors and deficiencies in holding 
them as slaves, and bringing them up in ignorance, 
before thy own mind was so fully enlightened on these 
subjects, perhaps that may be pa>sed by ; for God may 
wink at errors committed in the dajs of our ignorance. 
But without a submission on thy part to a course of 
action such, or nearly such, as I have mentioned, I cannot 
believe thy state a safe one. Even if it should require 
all thy estate to relieve thee from slaveholding, and 
thereby thou couldst obtain lasting peace, I think it would 
be a happy exchange. The great olject of my writing to 
thee at ttiis time is that pi-ace may be thy portion forever. 
In thy case it is my solid judgment that slave-keeping is 
a sin ; and Christ said, if men die in their sins where he 
is gone they cannot come. 

Thou may think it strange that I carry my judgment 
so far as to think there is no hope for the slaveholder 
that he may obtain peace ! But \^ justice is equally due 
to the black man and the white one, I cannot see room 
to hope for those who daily live in the violation of every 
rule of justice toward the colored man ; for this is daily 
to rob them of their rights, of their property, and of their 
liberty also. If they were to treat thee or me so, we 
should find no difficulty in pronouncing judgment against 
them, as wicked and unjust men. 

The prophet, in the name of the Lord, said, ^^ Wo unto 
him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his 
chambers by wrong ; that useth his neighbor's service 
without wages, and giveth him not for his work.'' And 
in what does not slavery come up to this case ? Does it 
not even exceed it ? for the people to whom the prophet 
spake, did not hold their neighbors in perpetual slavery ! 
but only cheated them out of some of their labor ! 

I am concerned for thee, however well thou mayest 
think of thyself, and of thy present .situation. I think it 
necessary for thee to look about thee, to leave nothing un- 
done, that can be done, for the deliverance of the poor 
from bonds and oppression, and thyself from danger of 



96 APPENDIX. 

losing tbj peace. I would advise thee to walk softly the 
remainder of thy days, be they many or few. Humble 
thyself before the Lord, while the door of mercy is open, 
as I hope it yet is. Do what thou canst to set a good 
example to thy children and neighbors, in relation to the 
emancipation of thy slaves ; for thy day is hastening over, 
and it would be a dreadful thing to die and leave all thy 
colored people in slavery to thy posterity. It would be 
better to leave thy children beggars! Remember Zac- 
cheus; he was made willing to restore four-fold to any he 
might have wronged, beside giving half his goods to the 
poor ; and Jesus said to him, ^' this day has salvation 
come to thy house.*' I hardly know how to stop, but time 
fails me. I would desire thee not to think lightly of the 
hints I have given thee, for I believe they are important 
to the welfare of thee and thy family. 
From thy friend 

David Ferris. 



The following letter from Robert Pleasants was writ- 
ten nearly three years after the foregoing was written to 
him by David Ferris, and furnishes cause to believe that 
the seed sown by the latter, under deep concern for his 
friend, was not unfruitful. 

Virginia, Curles, 9th mo. 11, 1777. 

Esteemed friendy Samuel R. Fislier, — A favorable 
opportunity offering by our friends John Crew ad 
Gerard Ellyson, who propose to attend your Yearly 
Meeting, I sit down in consequence of thy request and 
in compliance with my promise, to advise thee how far 
I have proceeded in the business of manumitting the 
slaves under my care; and can with a degree of satis- 
faction say that I have so far completed it as that I be- 
lieve there is not more than five or six remaining, who, 



APPENDIX. 97 

being children, and living at a distance, I neither knew 
their ages nor the names of some of them till within a 
few days. I intend shortly to finish that business, and 
trust to consequences, believiDg that He who hath called 
to the work will prosper it, notwithstanding the oppo- 
sition which some violent spirits have made and seem 
still disposed to make. I may further inform thee 
that divers Friends of late have given up, and others 
seem freely disposed to give up, their negroes, so that 
should our Assembly (which by adjournment meets, I 
think, the 10th of next month) repeal the unrighteous 
law agninst their freedom, as some expect, I hope Friends 
in a general way will not only be relieved from the bur- 
then, but have the satisfaction to see many others of them 
act as useful members of society in a state of freedom. 
Thy assured friend, 

KoBERT Pleasants. 



Wilmington y*' 12tli of 1st mo., 1768. 

My dear young friend^ Ann Taylor : — 

During the short period of our acquaintance I have 
felt for thee that love and good-will which desires thy 
well being here and hereafter. I wish to encourage thee 
to set out betimes on that long journey which requires 
the whole term of life to perform, to the greatest advan- 
tage. The sooner the work is begun the better for 
thee, because, in early life, there are not so many 
hinderances, arising from wrong habits, and an alienation 
of mind from divine good. The heavenly hand has been 
extended in love, to gather thee from all empty enjoy- 
ments into the fold of peace. ^' Now is the accepted 
time,^' while thou art called and invited, and drawn by 
the cords of Divine love : that love which is the mark 
of discipleship in the church of Christ. I believe thou 
hast felt it. The Truth has appeared beautiful in thy 

9 



98 APPENDIX. 

sight; and those who are travelling in the way of 
peace J have been objects of thy near affection. I much 
desire that thou mayest be made a partaker with them in 
the joys that abide forever. These are they that receive 
" an hundred fold ^^ of enjoyment in this life, and in 
that which is to come life everlasting. 

When my attention has been turned toward thee, of 
latter time, my mind has been invested with concern, 
and a strong desire for thy preservation in the right way; 
and particularly in relation to thy marriage. A married 
state is the most desirable, and most comfortable of all 
states, provided we enter it, as the apostle says, '' Only 
in the Lord :'' that is, as 1 understand him, under divine 
direction, to the right person, at the right time, and in 
the right way. But of that person, time, and way, un- 
instructed by divine wisdom, we are by no means com- 
petent to judge. Without such direction we must proceed 
in the dark, and shall be more likely to miss the right 
object, than to attain it. Those who miss it, mostly make 
unto themselves a rough uneasy path to walk in, and 
always an unsafe one. When men and women are not 
rightly joined, and losses, crosses and disappointments 
occur, there will be a disposition to blame each other, — 
sometimes to wish they had never seen one another — 
and, in times of great trial, even to express that wish. 
I have hnown such things ; and where the union has no 
deeper foundation than mere natural affection, better 
cannot be reasonably expected. Those who marry from 
motives of convenience, or with selfish views, frequently 
pass along through life in discord and uneasiness, and 
often lay a foundation for more lasting unhappiness. 
The uneasiness of their state makes them fretlul, and 
being without any sure anchor to the mind, they are tossed 
about hither and thither; rather prepared to hinder than 
help one another in their religious progress. 1 his state 
it is fearful to contemplate, and the earnest prayer of my 
soul has been, that thou mayest escape the danger of a 



APPENDIX. 99 

connection witli an unsuitable companion, in bonds wliicli 
death only can dissolve. 

On the other hand, if the great end of our creation 
becomes the primary object of concern, — if we '^ seek 
first the kingdom of God and his righteousness/' and 
obtain it — if we keep near our divine Director, and proceed 
in the holy fear, we shall have no cause to dread the 
event, either in reference to the temper and disposition 
of our allotted companion, or to the means of a comfort- 
able subsistence. They who are thus happily united, 
will go along the road of life, rejoicing in that they are 
joined together in the will of heaven ; and when losses, 
and disappointments, and afflictions overtake them, they 
will sympathize with each other, and freely help to bear 
one another's burdens. Oh, how blessed are they who 
are thus joined, — how happy for themselves and their 
posterity. How instructive to their children to see their 
parents' constant care to promote each other's happiness, 
— to see them concerned, by circumspect walking, to set 
in all things a good example to their family, and those 
who dwell round about them. To these the promise is 
fulfilled appertaining to those who first seek the heavenly 
riches, that all necessary things shall be superadded. 

Dear Ann, although thou mayest resist the heavenly 
call, and fail to obtain the blessing intended, yet I hope 
better things of thee, and things that accompany salva- 
tion. Life and death are set before thee. Life is 
offered, — therefore, I beseech thee, choose life and live. 
In order to obtain it, and to grow in it, we must be sober, 
humble, self-denying, and abide under the cross of Christ. 
We must not live at ease, or in an unconcerned state.- 
We must not love the world, nor take delight in earthly 
things. It is now a time of divine visitation, — a day of 
love to thy soul, in which thou mayest be gathered into 
the heavenly fold. It would be cause of great joy to me 
to see and hear of thy obedience to the cross of Christ, 
— to know that thou art concerned to come forward in 
the discharge of every Christian duty. On the contrary, 



100 APPENDIX. 

it would be exceedingly sorrowful to see or hear of thy 
falling away from the Truth. Now is the time, — a time 
of love, and undoubtedly thy best time. Do not let it 
pass away unimproved. Let not the world, nor the 
things of the world divert thy attention from seeking 
after ^^ the one thing needful/^ ^Hhat good part 
which shall not be taken away :'' for what profit would 
it be, to gain all the wealth, the pleasures, and honors of 
the world ; and thereby lose thy own soul. Oh, dread- 
ful loss ! I tremble at the thought of it. I have much 
love in my heart, and good-will towards thee; I therefore 
press these things upon thy attention. 

Present my kind love to thy dear mother, and to John 
Carter^ s family. 

From thy assured friend, 

David Ferris. 



Wilmington, y® 1st of 9th mo. 1772. 
Dear Friend Catharine Hallochy at Newhurg : — 

Thine, dated the 3d of 8th mo. 1772, is just now re- 
ceived. I take it very kind of thee that thou hast re- 
membered us in this way, and gladly accept the favor. 
The reading of tby letter recalled to memory, in a very 
lively manner, the near unity and fellowship felt and en- 
joyed with thee and thy father's family, when with you 
at Newburg. And I believe if you live near the Truth 
with which you have been favored, you will be made a 
blessing to your neighborhood, and be instrumental in 
spreading the divine light to and among the poor be- 
nighted inhabitants of your vicinity. 

When with you, dear Catharine, I thought I felt the 
divine goodness, and heavenly regard, extended towards 
thee in a particular manner, in order for thy help, hoping 
thou mayest be preserved near the spring of life, so as to 
become an instrument of good to others. The Lord has 



APPENDIX. 101 

been good to thee. He has blessings in store for those 
who keep near him and turn away from other lovers. Mj 
dear friend, *^keep thy heart with all diligence, for out 
of it are the issues of life.'^ The heavenly fountain is 
open for thee to bathe in. Do not forget the goodness of 
God, which was eminently extended to all of us, and par- 
ticularly to thyself, at the last sitting we had in your fa- 
mily. It was a time of extraordinary favor. The Lord 
was very kind and gracious to you; and will ever be so, 
if you mind the light which has shone upon you, and 
continue to walk in it. Beware of forgetfulness. Do 
not forget the Lord, but often think upon his name. I 
believe that many, by living at ease, and neglecting to 
watch against temptation ; lose sight of the heavenly 
riches ; and not a few, by letting their minds run after 
earthly things, are finally lost. 

My dear friend, it is a great favor to feel the love of 
God uniting us together. If we dwell in it we must ne- 
cessarily love one another, whether presenter absent, to- 
gether or separate. All the faithful are children of one 
Father, and his uniting love and virtue flows from one of 
them to another, by the feeling of which we know that 
we have passed from death unto life. By this ^Move of 
the brethren,^' all men may know that we are disciples of 
Christ. Let us cherish it, and live in it. There is noth- 
ing so excellent, so beautiful, so engaging, as this hea- 
venly uniting love. I thought many times, when lately 
travelling among you, that the near affection and unity I 
felt for, and with some of my dear brethren and sisters, 
were an ample compensation for all the trouble and fa- 
tigue I endured. I long for the salvation of all my fel- 
low men, and that they may come to knowexperimentallj 
"V^hat this love and unity is, by their effects. The world, 
or those who are at friendship with the world, know noth- 
ing of it, — neither can they know it, until they come out 
of the world. All the living members of the Church of 
Christ experience something of it, and the nearer we live 
to the Truth the more we shall know of it. Therefore 

9* 



102 APPENDIX. 

let us so live that we may be as Epistles written in one 
aoottier's hearts. 

I have often thought of thee and the other members 
of your family since 1 saw you, and should rejoice to see 
you again. As that may never be in this state of being, 
I pray that we may all so walk, and so live in the Lord's 
fear, that we may meet hereafter in peace; for that is the 
ultimate object of our creation, as well as of all the bless- 
ings conferred upon us, in our passage through time. 

I was much pleased on receiving a letter from thee, and 
shall be glad to receive a few lines from thee or any of 
the family, letting me know of your health, and the state 
of afiairs among you, and the few Friends, situated near 
the residence of thy sister Sands. 

My dear friend, my heart flows with love and good will 
towards thee, with earnest desire for thy help and preser- 
vation. My dear love is to thy father and mother, bro- 
thers and sisters. 

From thy well wishing friend, 

Dayid Ferris. 

N. B. Samuel Neale is lately gone to Ireland, and he 
desired me, when I wrote to any of our friends, to give 
his kind love to them. 

D. F. 



Extract of a letter to David Ferris, Jr. 

Wilmington, y® 10th of 8th mo. 1773. 
Dear Cousin^ David Ferris : — 

My mind was impressed some days past, with concern 
for thee as a near kinsman ; remembering that as our 
works shall be here, so must be our reward hereafter and 
forever. I apprehend that thou hast not been earnestly 
concerned to be prepared for thy latter end, but hast been 
diverting thyself with the pleasant things of this life, 



APPENDIX. 108 

deligliting in airy unprofitable company. Now, in the 
common course of things, thy days are half spent, and 
perhaps much more than half spent, and if thou should 
be shortly called upon to give up thy stewardship, and 
not be ready for it, how fearful would be thy situation ! 
We all have a great work to do, and the whole of our 
lives will not be more than sufficient for its accomplish- 
ment. If half thy life, or more than half of it, be al- 
ready spent, and little or none of that work done, it is 
high time now to begin it in earnest. Oh, spend no more 
of thy precious time in wantonness and forgetfulness of 
Grod. Remember, that in order to be saved we must all 
be turned from darkness to light, — must pass from death 
unto life, — must be born again and become new crea- 
tures. We must cease to do evil, otherwise we cannot 
learn to do well, consequently cannot be happy. '' Without 
holiness," said the apostle, ''no man shall see the Lord." 
We must, therefore, become holy in all manner of conver- 
sation. Those who are living in pleasure, gratifying their 
sensual appetites, are dead while they live. They who 
are delighting themselves in vanity, pleasing themselves 
with all the gaieties of life, are not walking in the nar- 
row way, which only '' leads to life " and peace : The 
other way, which is broad and easy to the fiesh, our Lord 
declares *' leadeth to destruction." Death and darkness 
will be the end and certain consequence of continuing in 
that way. Considering the uncertainty of life, it is a 
concern of vast importance to know that our day's work 
is going on with the day, for the night cometh, and is 
rapidly aproaching to us all, when no man can work. 

I have a strong desire, that thou, my dear cousin, and 
all my relations in your part of the country, may be ef- 
fectually roused to a solid consideration of this momen- 
tous subject. ^^ One thing is needful :" and I greatly de- 
sire that thou mayest choose that good part which can 
never be taken from thee. The apostle, in a solemn man- 
ner, declares, '*• If ye live after the flesh ye shull die, but 
if ye, through the spirit, do mortify the deeds of the 



104 APPENDIX. 

body, je shall live ;'* and Christ says^ ^^ whosoever doth 
not bear his cross, and come after me cannot be my disci- 
ple/' These are the unalterable terms of salvation — the 
only way to peace here, and everlasting felicity in the 
life which is to come. 

Now I desire thee and all my relations to consider these 
things in a solid, weighty manner. Do not make a light 
matter of that which is of everlasting importancej but 
examine the subject closely, — ponder it solemnly. See 
whether you are denying yourselves, — and taking up your 
cross daily ; without which you cannot lay hold of the 
everlasting crown. 

My kind love and hearty good wishes are to and for you 
all, desiring you may live and die in peace. From thy 
uncle, 

David Ferris. 



Wilmington, y^ 20th of 3d mo. 1777. 

Respected Friend , 3foses Bi^own : — 

After kind love presented to thee, thy mother, and sis- 
ter Mary, with all thy family, this may inform that John 
Perry and I have received our Certificate, which we un- 
derstand came through thy hands to William Wilson. 
William writes to me that the people on E,hode Island 
are under difficulties owing to the quartering of soldiers 
upon them. There have been no very heavy burdens 
laid on us here, in that way ; but we have had a great 
many sick soldiers among us, and hundreds of them have 
died of the camp fever. Several of the inhabitants have 
taken it from them, and have also died. 

When opportunity offers I should be glad to hear what 
has become of poor T. D. — whether he has come down 
from his lofty seat and high imaginations, so as to submit 
to the advice of his best friends. Having myself been 
favored with a heavenly visitation, and called out of the 



APPENDIX. 105 

forms and outside shows of religion, into an acquaint- 
ance, in some measure, with the divine substance, I am 
often thoughtful about and concerned for others, who 
have heard and obeyed the call. And I think I may just 
say I have felt and do feel some desires for the prosperity 
of Truth in your part of the country, and especially for 
the preservation of such as have been convinced of the 
Truth, and obeyed the heavenly call, so as to turn their 
backs upon the fading pleasures of this world : such as 
have denied themselves, and have taken up the cross, so 
as to have come away from the barren mountains of an 
empty profession, and become fools for Christ's sake. I 
greatly desire you may all steadily persevere in the way 
that will end in peace. I have found by experience that 
being convinced of the principle of Truth, and forsaking 
the vanities of the world, and seeing the emptiness of all 
external forms of religion, and turning from them, and 
joining with those who worship God in spirit and in 
truth (as to the outward fellowship) is not sufficient for 
salvation, without coming into Christ *Hhe true vine," 
and truly abiding in him, so as to receive nourishment 
from him, and life daily springing up through him. I 
cannot therefore well do less than press all Friends who 
have been lately convinced of the blessed Truth, to 
dwell low, under a daily concern and care to shun the 
friendships of the world, — to take heed to themselves, — 
to look to their standing, — to their living, and walking, 
as becomes an enlightened people, who have been visited 
by the Dayspring from on high, to give light to them 
that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death ; — re- 
membering that they are no longer safe than during their 
continuance in a low state, — in a life of self-denial under 
the Cross of Christ. 

The apostle tells us that, it had been better for us not 
to have known the way of Righteousness, than after we 
have known it to turn from the holy commandment. 

I thought it could not be amiss to give a caution on 
this wise, though I hope better things of many of you, 



106 APPENDIX. 

who have been blessed with a visitation of light and life, 
than that you should turn back and forsake the way of 
Truth : — but some have done so, and others may do so ; 
and as it is of the utmost consequence to us, that we con- 
tinue steadfast to the end, love moves me thus to write. 
Let us take the apostle's advice to the Galatians, '' Stand 
fast, therefore, in the liberty wherewith Christ has made 
us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bon- 
dage.'^ We have many enemies that oppose our progress 
heavenward. There is no safety unless we keep upon the 
watch tower, and dwell near the fountain of life. If that 
be our constant care, we shall become as lights to the 
world; as the salt of the earth, as a city set upon a 
hill which cannot be hid. We shall be as way-marks to 
others, — as good examples to the flock, — all which is re- 
quired of those whose eyes have been opened to see the 
beauty there is in the Truth. If you who have received 
the anointing, are faithful to the manifestations of di- 
vine Grace, you will be made instrumental in spreading 
its holy influence among the people. The heavenly re- 
gard is toward the people of Providence and parts adja- 
cent. It is a day of visitation to the several professions, 
and I believe more will be manifest, if those who are en- 
lightened walk worthy of their vocation, and dwell in a 
grateful sense of the blessings received. 
From thy well-wishing friend, 

Dayid Ferris. 



-i-n 



